Leasing begins at Duo, a new 330-apartment complex in Chelsea

Leasing is now underway at DUO, a new apartment complex in Chelsea that took over the site of the former Innes public housing development.

Located on Central Avenue, Duo will unite much of that former public housing community with new residents in market-rate apartments, a union that inspired the building’s name.

“Those residents were relocated, and the building was taken down,” said Cynthia Buckley, marketing director at John M. Corcoran & Co. “It will be a nice mix of new residents and those returning to a brand-new building. It makes the demographic more diverse.”

The project was developed in under three years by John M. Corcoran & Co., Joseph J. Corcoran Co., and Marcus Partners in collaboration with the Chelsea Housing Authority, the City of Chelsea and the state’s Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities. Move-ins are expected in November.

The name also refers to the development’s two buildings, one at six stories and the other reaching seven, whose modern cube architecture was overseen by Cube3.

“There are pops of color and interesting lighting,” said Buckley of the interior design. “We wanted it to be luxurious, but we also have to consider that families will live here, too. So we designed space for families to feel free to romp and have fun. There’s a playground and the Fusion Room, which includes a game arcade.

“There are places that will be noisier,” she added, “but there are spaces to relax and be quiet.”

Light, bright apartment interiors have open kitchen-to-living area layouts, Buckley said, and plenty of closet space. Every unit has a washer/dryer. Kitchens pair two-toned cabinetry with quartz countertops and stainless steel appliances.

“The white kitchen cabinetry makes it look so bright, and the white quartz countertops have this beautiful colored streaking,” said Buckley. “It looks very striking.”

Duo is dog and cat friendly with some breed restrictions, and includes a dog washing station and a dog run. A courtyard with grills and seating anchors the social spaces, and there are two “Sky Lounges” and three roof decks — one building has two. The well-equipped fitness center includes Peloton bikes and rowers.

“I’m just going to say this, but it isn’t final yet,” said Buckley. “We’re trying hard to get a golf simulator put in, but we are trying to make sure there’s room and it will be safe. Not everyone is a great golfer, and we don’t want golf balls flying around hitting people or hitting glass.”

Among the 330 apartments, 96 are reserved for the relocated public housing residents, and 40 apartments are available as moderate-income housing. The rest are market rate. Floor plans include studios ranging from 521 square feet to 551 square feet, which start at $2,350 per month; one-bed and one-bed plus den apartments from 660 square feet to 707 square feet, starting at $2,575 and $2,775 respectively; and two-bedroom apartments ranging from 991 square feet to 1,045 square feet, which start at $3,250.

Garage parking is $150 per month per space. There is free onsite bike storage, and the building is 0.3 miles from the Eastern Avenue Station on the Silver Line.

“Chelsea has its own vibe and has really interesting restaurants,” Buckley said of the storied North Shore community. “This is for people who want this kind of new community and amenities without the downtown prices.”

DUO is located at 180 Central Ave., Chelsea. duoapts.com.