A New Home for Belonging
THE NEXT CHAPTER OF THE EMBRACE
In 2023, The Embrace Monument created a new civic gathering place on Boston Common, welcoming millions of visitors and sparking conversations about belonging, history, and community. A new vision builds on that momentum by creating a permanent indoor home for year-round gathering, learning, and connection. Together, these spaces will help shape a more inclusive and connected Boston.
Embrace has acquired 33–41 West Street in Downtown Crossing. It is the future home of a vibrant civic and cultural gathering space just steps from The Embrace Monument and Freedom Plaza on Boston Common.
More than a building, this project represents an investment in Boston’s future: a place where people can gather, connect, create, celebrate, and build community together. Designed as a welcoming destination for residents and visitors alike, the space will bring arts, culture, storytelling, community convening, and public life under one roof.
A NEW PUBLIC MONUMENT
Embrace will launch a national artist call to create a major public artwork that will transform the building into Boston’s next civic landmark. More details about the artist selection process and public art commission will be announced soon.
WHY WE’RE BUILDING IT
Belonging doesn’t happen by accident. It happens when people have places to come together.
This project is designed as Boston’s modern-day meeting house: an open, welcoming civic commons where people from all backgrounds can gather and belong.
Whether you’re attending a public conversation, exploring an art installation, meeting with neighbors, enjoying a coffee, recording a podcast, or discovering Boston’s stories, this will be a place where community comes to life.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Arts & Culture
Rotating installations and exhibitions, public art, artist residencies, performances, and creative experiences that celebrate Boston’s diverse communities.
Community Gathering
Flexible spaces for meetings, convenings, workshops, and civic dialogue.
Food & Hospitality
A welcoming café and gathering space designed to bring people together.
Storytelling & Media
Podcasting, content creation, public conversations, and opportunities to share community stories.
Public Programming
Events, celebrations, educational experiences, and cultural activations that connect past, present, and future.
Do you have an idea on how this space could serve your community?
Project Timeline
2026
Building acquisition and vision development
2026–2028
Community engagement, design, fundraising, and planning
2028–2030
Construction, public art installation, and programming development
2030
Grand opening aligned with Boston’s 400th anniversary
Frequently Asked Questions
Where will it be located?
33–41 West Street, Downtown Crossing, Boston, Massachusetts.
When will it open?
The project is expected to open in phases, with a full opening targeted for 2030.
How can I get involved?
Sign up for updates, become a partner, support the project through philanthropy, or participate in future community engagement opportunities.