Beyond the South End: The DNA Lofts
People interested in buying in the South End don’t necessarily consider looking in other neighborhoods before they buy. After all, the South End has a special urban quality that is not easily replicated. It feels sophisticated, hip, urbane and funky, all at the same time. A little urban street grit at the edges helps to lend the neighborhood an edge.
But for those looking for a funky urban experience at only a fraction of the cost of South End, there’s another neighborhood to consider: Dorchester. Dorchester has gotten a bad rap for crime and general dinginess, but new construction in the neighborhood is changing that reputation, even persuading some South Enders to pull up stakes and give the neighborhood a try. Joining the Schoolhouse at Lower Mills and the Carruth project are the DNA Lofts at 944 Dorchester Avenue.
The 3-story red brick building was actually an old printing press converted into 60 residential units. The units make quite an impression: all have multiple oversized double-pane windows, bamboo or polished concrete floors, high ceilings, some with mezzanines, exposed beams and top-of-the-line kitchens with black granite tops and stainless steel appliances. Best part of the deal is the price: units start in the $200Ks and include parking.
While it is feasible for urbanites to live at the DNA Lofts without a car, (the complex is a 15-minute walk from the UMASS/JFK subway station on the Red Line), life without a car in Dorchester isn’t easy. The DNA Lofts get a walkscore of 77, which frankly places this complex far below the walkability of the South End. Dining choices in the neighborhood are also limited, which could be a problem for South Enders accustomed to their pick of top restaurants. Reviews for the project have been great, however, and the pictures ARE beautiful. We’ll wait to see whether city dwellers will take a chance on Dorchester. The fact that the The Carruth luxury condos ran into problems in sales in a slow market and has begun renting their condos could be an ominous sign, along with the fact that Dorchester has been a neighborhood particularly hard hit in foreclosures. Still, the DNA lofts are beautifully appointed with quality finishes and may be worth a look.
There IS, at least potentially, life beyond the South End. Check out the pics:
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