The paving system designed as part of Machado and Silvetti's master plan for Dewey Square creates a continuous field of stone and concrete into which a series of disparate objects are inserted. The paving pattern, with a giant order of stripes that adjust in width to accommodate the various objects, reflects the large scale of the plaza. Each object is carefully orchestrated in order to establish visual relationships with the main pedestrian thresholds into the square. The glass lobbies of the surrounding office buildings inspired the concept behind the glass-louvered head houses leading to the underground subway. These jewels in the paving field become glowing beacons at night, give the precinct a distinctive identity.
