Avalon Bay Multifamily Project: Brighton, MA

  • General Contractor: Avalon Bay, Boston, MA
  • Installer: Lighthouse Masonry, New Bedford, MA
  • Architect: CBT Architects, Boston, MA
  • Product: The DURUS LC System

Avalon Bay is an innovative five and six story multifamily housing development located in Brighton, MA, that redefines modern urban architecture. This project utilized Belden’s Rubigo Red Velour 2-inch-thick bricks, in a mechanically anchored, wall-mounted brick veneer systems. The use of 200 Flashed Matt bricks from Belden ensured high-quality craftsmanship.

Choosing A No-Mortar Brick System

The project managers at Avalon Bay carefully evaluated the aesthetic and functional advantages of a mechanically attached brick veneer system. This technological advancement from Desana, the industry leader in brick rainscreens, eliminates the need for mortar, creating a clean, precise, and uniform appearance. The innovative “no-mortar” approach not only appealed to the city of Boston but also provided a unique visual identity to the building, ensuring the finished walls perfectly matched the original brick sample boards.

Sustainability and Long-Term Benefits

The decision to eliminate mortar brought numerous environmental and maintenance advantages:

  • Zero CO2 Emissions: Eliminating the need for mortar reduced the project’s environmental impact by several thousand tons of CO2.
  • Efflorescence-Free: This ensures the façade maintains its crisp and clean look over time.
  • Low Maintenance: With no tuckpointing required, the system significantly reduces long-term maintenance costs.