Fast-track interior and exterior renovation to 100-year-old library
Dense urban site
Lee Kennedy Co. was selected as the general contractor for the restoration and renovation of this 100-year-old Back Bay institutional library. The scope of this fast-track project comprised the main library renovation with tie-ins to buildings on either side, giving the college one address. A brick addition with a 2½’ structural mat supported by pressure-injected footings was constructed off the back of the library
Exterior work included restoring the detailed and ornamental masonry façade and removing and cleaning the leaded casement windows with Boston’s famous lavender glass. A one hundred-year-old, stained-glass, domed-skylight spanning 32 feet was removed piece by piece for professional cleaning, restoring its original luster. Interior work involved upgrading mechanical systems, providing state-of-the-art enhancements throughout including handicap accessibility; the full restoration of original wall coverings; and gutting and rebuilding two floors in the front entry. Technological enhancements include the wiring of the entire library for laptop computer use and Internet access
Dust and debris were kept to a minimum as not to interfere with the restoration process or materials. Work was performed in accordance with historic restoration techniques of the highest quality. Moreover, all work conforms to the Back Bay Architectural Commission’s stringent guidelines
