Somerville, MA — Construction firm Nauset Construction has completed Phase II of its Union 346 project, a 59-unit, a transit-oriented residential development located at 3 Hawkins Street in Somerville, Massachusetts. The project was built to rigorous Passive House standards, emphasizing energy efficiency and enhanced resident comfort.
Passive House certification focuses on high-performance building envelopes designed to dramatically reduce energy consumption for heating and cooling while maintaining consistent indoor temperatures and air quality.
The development is a joint venture between John M. Corcoran & Company, The Grossman Companies, Inc., and SMT Development. It marks their second multifamily project in Union Square, following the completion of Phase I last year—a 94-unit building with ground-floor retail space.
Located in a highly walkable neighborhood, the Union 346 properties boast a Walk Score of 97 and a Bike Score of 99, with immediate access to dining, entertainment, and public transportation, including the Green Line Extension.
“The Passive House design of Phase II reflects our ongoing commitment to sustainability while helping meet the demand for transit-oriented housing—both market-rate and affordable—in Somerville,” said Tim Corcoran of JMC.
Designed by ICON Architecture, the project replaces two previously deteriorated structures, contributing to the revitalization of the surrounding neighborhood. The new building consists of four levels of wood-frame construction atop a steel-and-concrete podium and includes a mix of studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments. Of the 59 units, 11 are designated as affordable housing.
The exterior features a brick base with fiber cement siding and paneling above, while large casement windows and aluminum storefront elements maximize natural light. A durable TPO membrane roof completes the building envelope.
Residents at Phase II enjoy a range of amenities, including co-working pods, a rooftop deck with garden plantings, a sky bar, and lounge areas offering views of the Boston skyline. Select units feature private patios or balconies, and the property includes storage for 59 bicycles, parking for 15 vehicles, and EV charging stations.
In addition to Phase II amenities, residents have access to shared features in Phase I, such as a fitness center, bike repair station, dog washing area, lounge with kitchen and fireplace, and another rooftop deck with a fire pit and garden space. The development also includes a landscaped backyard-style patio with grills and seating.
In partnership with the City of Somerville, the project team created a publicly accessible park at the rear of the property, providing green space for both residents and the broader community. Both buildings are professionally managed by John M. Corcoran & Company.
Passive House Performance
Phase II is currently under review for certification by Passive House Institute US. This standard requires strict benchmarks for insulation, airtightness, and ventilation, resulting in significantly reduced energy usage and lower operating costs. Additional benefits include improved indoor air quality, reduced noise, consistent temperatures, enhanced daylighting, and lower risk of mold.
“Since its founding, Nauset Construction has remained committed to sustainable building practices,” said Anthony Papantonis, President of Nauset Construction. “We’re proud to see developers continue to value our expertise in delivering efficient, urban infill housing across Greater Boston.”
About Nauset Construction
Founded in 2004 by Anthony “Tony” Papantonis, Nauset Construction has grown steadily from its first project in Foxborough, Massachusetts, into a firm with a diverse portfolio spanning urban, suburban, and rural markets throughout New England. The company continues to prioritize its core values of integrity, diligence, attention to detail, and a strong commitment to client satisfaction.
