Award-winning renovation of an 1845 Greek Revival townhouse at 71 Charles Street in Boston’s historic Beacon Hill neighborhood into Beacon Hill Books & Café. Winner of the 2023 Bulfinch Award from the New England Chapter of the Institute of Classical Architecture & Art.
- Greek Revival townhouse (total sq. ft. 3750) at 71 Charles Street in Boston’s historic district of Beacon Hill.
- Building in very poor condition: major gut renovation needed down to the bare brick.
- Ambitious program for 4 floors of bookstore resembling a residential beautifully detailed Beacon Hill Residence with fire places and historically appropriate classical detailing. Lower level Café and top floor offices. Children’s floor designed with careful attention to children’s whimsical attention and pleasure.
- A new Beacon Hill style brick tunnel to provide accessibility for all and access to a secret garden.
- The ambiance for this exquisite and diverse book collection offers a taste of the best classical history. It is designed to inspire and appeal to all tourists and residents alike of all ages and backgrounds.
- Period authentic architectural detailing; yet, perfectly clean, meticulous and conceived in harmony with the interior design high aspirations of the Owner. No detail was left for granted and was carefully calibrated to create a desired overall effect for the curious mind. The guests’ intellects and senses are stimulated while given the aura of tranquility and aesthetic delight. The “intellectual” aspect continues in the spirit of the original historical uses of this iconic Boston townhouse.
Press:
A New Chapter for Beacon Hill – Boston Magazine
A Four-Story Bookstore Is Coming to Beacon Hill – Boston Magazine
Book Smart – Traditional Building
A Fairytale Bookstore in Boston – The Glam Pad
Featured Event:
Architectural Tour of Beacon Hill Books & Café – Institute of Classical Architecture & Art
Photo credit: Sarah Winchester
