The Matzeliger Lofts

A vision for creative urban living on the waterfront.

Upland Architects proudly presents The Matz Lofts (short for Matzeliger Lofts)— a bold, unbuilt concept envisioned to transform Lynn’s industrial waterfront into a dynamic, mixed-use community rooted in heritage and innovation. Designed as a tribute to Jan Matzeliger—the African-American inventor who revolutionized the shoe industry and helped cement Lynn’s legacy as the “Shoe Capital of the World”—The Matz was imagined as a living monument to creativity, perseverance, and local pride.

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Situated at 276 Lynnway, the design proposed a 13-story building blending residential, commercial, and public realms. The project’s striking industrial-inspired form—with brick, blackened steel, and expansive glazing—reflects Lynn’s historic factory architecture while introducing contemporary vitality to the waterfront. The proposed massing featured multi-level public spaces, rooftop gardens, a sunken plaza, and shared workspaces designed to foster collaboration and civic engagement.

Inside, 154 thoughtfully crafted loft-style residences—ranging from studios to two-bedrooms—were planned with flexible layouts, high ceilings, and oversized operable windows to support live/work lifestyles. Amenity-rich community areas, including a fitness center, spin studio, meditation rooms, pet park, communal kitchens, and rooftop event spaces, were imagined to cultivate connection among residents and neighbors alike.

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At street level, The Matz embraced the City’s creative spirit with vibrant retail spaces, outdoor dining, community art installations, and public green spaces—all activating the edge of the Harborwalk and reinforcing a strong connection to Lynn Heritage State Park. A dedicated vertical circulation hub provided convenient access to residential garages and bike storage, while carefully planned setbacks and landscaping aimed to enhance the pedestrian experience.

Though unbuilt, The Matz stands as a conceptual milestone in Upland Architects’ portfolio—offering a visionary approach to urban revitalization, rooted in place, history, and the promise of what’s possible when architecture and community move forward together.