Studio Luz was thrilled to participate in the BLUME Block Party, a joyful community event that brought together neighbors, artists, local businesses, and creatives to celebrate a major milestone in delivering new affordable homes and community-serving commercial spaces to Mattapan. Our ongoing involvement with BLUME on the Ave made this day especially meaningful for our team.
This year’s BLUME Block Party brought together Mattapan residents, local leaders, small businesses, and project collaborators for a day filled with music, food, art, and community pride. Families enjoyed face painting by Eye DeZign Creative Arts Company, a line dancing contest with BostonRhythm Riders, and food from Fresh Food Generation and Café JuiceUp. Mayor’s Office Chief of Housing Sheila Dillon, Chair of the Greater Mattapan Neighborhood Council Fatima Ali-Salaam, DVM Housing Partners Founder and Principal Dariela Villón-Maga, and MassHousing CEO Chrystal Kornegay, were all in attendance, and event host Courtney Boston kept the energy high as neighbors toured the in-progress condos, learned about future homeownership opportunities, and celebrated the transformation underway on Blue Hill Avenue.
During the event, the Mayor’s Office of Housing and DVM Housing Partners recognized the progress of 30 new income-restricted homes and more than 3,000 square feet of commercial space across three formerly vacant City-owned parcels at 1015–1019, 1039, and 1028–1044 Blue Hill Avenue. The development, BLUME on the Ave, is a cornerstone of Mayor Wu’s commitment to ensuring that Bostonians of all income levels can stay in their neighborhoods, build wealth, and access local opportunity.
The BostonRhythm Riders brought the energy and led the community in a line dancing contest.
Led by DVM Housing Partners, a minority- and woman-owned firm with deep roots in the neighborhood, the project involved extensive collaboration with Mattapan residents. DVM Housing Partners Founder and Principal Dariela Villón-Maga, who grew up in the Grove Hall neighborhood and lives in Mattapan, noted that neighborhood voices played a central role in shaping the project. “We want these new homes and businesses to reflect the culture and future of Mattapan,” she said. “This development is rooted in the belief that affordable homeownership is key to ensuring that long-time residents can remain in their community and thrive.”
Studio Luz staff and their family joined the fun as well! It was great to have both Associate Taylor Tocci and Associate Sophie Nahrmann there, as they both have worked hard on leading the construction administration of the three buildings.
As architects for the project, Studio Luz worked with DVM to design BLUME on the Ave with a focus on long-term sustainability, resilience, and resident well-being. The all-electric, energy-efficient homes are designed to promote healthier indoor environments and lower utility costs, an essential ingredient in creating true affordability. Across studios, one-bedrooms, two-bedrooms, and three-bedroom units, residents will find modern layouts, durable materials, wood flooring, and thoughtful kitchens designed for everyday living. These details support the diverse needs of families, first-time buyers, and long-time Mattapan residents seeking stability and a chance to build generational wealth.
Studio Luz Principal Hansy Better Barraza with State Senator Liz Miranda, Boston City Council President Ruthzee Louijeune, and City Councilor At Large Henry Santana.
In addition to adding homes, the BLUME on the Ave project is strengthening the commercial heart of the neighborhood. Each of the three ground-floor commercial spaces will be occupied by Black-owned, woman-owned small businesses, selected through a community-led process, including Sadiddy Lifestyle, a neighborhood beauty studio; Body, Stone, and Soul + Smart Startup HR, a dual family business offering wellness products and small business support; and SIDE Presents, an arts organization uplifting underrepresented voices through storytelling and events, and a recipient of the City’s 2024 SPACE Grant.
City of Boston Chief of Economic Opportunity and Inclusion Segun Idowu, Mayor's Office of Housing Director - Neighborhood Housing Division Christine O'Keefe, Councilor Brian Worrell, Greater Mattapan Neighborhood Council Chair Fatima Ali-Salaam, DVM Founder and SLA Client Dariela Villón-Maga, and Chief of Housing for the City of Boston and the Director of the Mayor's Office of Housing Sheila Dillon.
The project is made possible through partnership with the City of Boston, MassHousing, the Massachusetts Housing Investment Corporation, and LISC Boston. Studio Luz is proud to work alongside a dedicated team including Oxbow Urban, CS2C/NE, and Bald Hill Builders.
While the BLUME Block Party was a celebration of progress, it was also a celebration of community. As construction continues and homeownership opportunities open to eligible households, we are honored to not only be a part of a project that strengthens the Lower Blue Hill Avenue corridor and reflects the resilient, creative spirit of Mattapan, but to engage in moments of joy with the community. Congratulations to all involved in this project and this event, especially our DVM partner Dariela, who has worked tirelessly to make this program a reality!