On Thursday, April 30th, CREW Boston’s Women of Color and Design and Development Committees hosted "Behind the Build: A Tour of Blume on the Ave,” an engaging event that offered a firsthand look at a transformative affordable housing development in Dorchester and Mattapan.

Held on-site at Blume on the Ave, attendees participated in a hard hat tour of this active construction project, which will deliver 30 newly built condominium units across three buildings, along with two commercial spaces. The development aims to strengthen the Lower Blue Hill Avenue corridor by expanding access to quality housing while creating meaningful economic opportunities for the surrounding community.

Participants heard directly from the all-women project team behind the development. Dariela Villón-Maga, President and Founder of DVM Housing Partners, shared the vision and mission driving the project, with a focus on equitable housing and long-term neighborhood stability. Hansy Better Barraza, Principal and Co-founder of Studio Luz, provided insight into the project’s thoughtful and community-centered design, while Brenda Laurenza, Founder and President of Bald Hill Builders, discussed the construction process and execution.

Following the tour and a lively Q&A session, attendees continued the conversation during an informal networking hour at Fresh Food Generation, further fostering connections across CREW Boston’s community.

Overall, the event highlighted the power of collaboration, representation, and intentional development in shaping more inclusive and vibrant neighborhoods.