Introduction

Connaughton Construction, with Grassi Architectural Design Firm of Boston, proudly presents our renovation of this three-story south end townhouse style condominium. Like many older row-house buildings, built-in 1890, the home has undergone numerous changes over the years. Suffice to say, it needed substantial structural improvements. We discuss how Boston Trends in Brownstone Renovation applies to this brownstone luxury renovation.

Architect: Guy Grassi Architect Design Firm

Style: Victorian Brownstone renovated to Contemporary, Traditional combination
Square Footage: 2,214
4 Bedrooms, 3.5 Baths
Time to Finish: 9 months
Project Year: 2018
Project Cost: $1,100,000

Before the Renovation  

Exterior of Boston Brownstone Commonwealth Avenue BOston. Connaughton Construction.

This Brownstone Renovation Structural Improvements

After removing the interior finishes of the three-floor unit we made the executive decision to replace
all floor joists and sub-flooring at the three levels. The old floor framing had dropped and settled in many areas and floors were sloping.

In addition to the structural framing work –  we saw the need for extensive repair and re-pointing of the front, rear, and two brick party walls. We replaced all systems; HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and fire alarms and added a new fire sprinkler system to meet today’s building codes.

Exterior Restoration

In addition, re-pointing of the exterior work includes new membrane roofing, new slate, and copper work at the front façade, as well as restoring the deteriorated brownstone bands and steps of the building. We also added new custom wood windows, a roof deck, and a balcony at the rear parlor level.

Interior Finishes

For the interior finishes, the parlor level now exhibits first class quarter-sawn oak with a herringbone design. The upper-level floors are outfitted with wide plank old growth walnut flooring.

Kitchen Renovation

To brighten the parlor level, we added a full wall of glass windows and doors at the rear kitchen wall, with direct access to the new balcony.

The kitchen cabinets are custom made and shop finished with a sharp-looking navy blue paint finish to match the custom Lacanche French gas range, imported from France. Accenting the range, is the custom made-to-fit commercial size range hood with matching paint and brass trim. White Calcutta marble countertops with a waterfall island top accent the cabinets nicely, keeping with the traditional style of the original era.

Living Room Renovation

The Boston Ornament company installed a cast-in-place plaster cornice in the living room and dining areas. We retained and refinished the original marble fireplace mantel as well as the ornate period mirror above.

Stairway Renovation

The stairs are completely rebuilt and restored and we added a new stairway to access the roof
deck.

Bathrooms Renovation

Bathrooms are outfitted with imported tile and marble with radiant heating warming these floors for those cold Boston winters.

The upper-level floors have a more contemporary flair with bright colors, modern trim, and hardware. Wall-mounted toilets and wall-hung vanity cabinets save space and add a modern flair to the design.

Large Roof Deck

The couple decided to add a gas fire bowl at the roof deck with a fully outfitted kitchen so they can enjoy the Boston skyline in good weather.

Boston Trends for Brownstone Renovations to Follow

  1. Italian Calcutta Marble Waterfall countertops
  2. Restoration Lumber Hardwood floors
  3. Wall Mounted Toilet and Vanity
  4. Roof Decks
  5. Buying Brownstones and renovating to maintain their old-world charm while adding 21st-century functionality. An art only for experienced architects and builders.
  6. Boston real estate continuously increases in value and demand.

Brownstone Renovation in Boston Demands Knowledgeable Team Experience

Naturally, you want to work with a contractor who will be an essential part of a cooperative team that will carry out your vision. It’s also critically important that your contractor gives you realistic feedback to ensure the project moves forward smoothly.

Connaughton Construction understands your desire to have a home environment that not only meets your aesthetic requirements but will also be workable for your day-to-day living patterns. Your home is your sanctuary. Ultimately, you want a space where the chaos of the world is left behind, and your soul is fed with calm and positive energy.

SignUp For The Builders Notebook here

Contact Connaughton Construction, offering quality in distinctive craftsmanship, attention to detail and dedicated professional performance. We are specialists in building new custom homes and renovating luxury homes – including historic Boston brownstones – for over 30 years. Hire the professionals who work as a team to make your dream home a reality.

Request a FREE Consultation with Connaughton Construction and let the project begin. Design your story with Connaughton Construction. 

Leave your comments below. We love to hear some of the designs you see trending in Boston.