The Abbot Building
Cambridge -Harvard Square, MA
Aerial Photo Courtesy of PCA (architects)
The Abbot Building
Location
Cambridge, MA
Size
5,200 sq. ft.
Project Completion
Fall 2021
Preservation Award from Cambridge Historical Commission (Regency Centers Video)
Abbot Building Receives 2024 Mayor Thomas M. Menino Legacy Award
The Abbot Building: A Historic Landmark Reimagined
Once home to the iconic “Curious George” bookstore, the Abbot Building is a cornerstone of Harvard Square’s architectural and cultural history. Originally designed in 1908, with the Brattle Street Buildings dating back to 1894, this Georgian Revival landmark has been thoughtfully restored to preserve its historic charm while integrating modern sustainability features.
The building’s new design balances tradition with innovation, featuring green roofs that enhance sustainability by providing stormwater management and scenic rooftop views. In collaboration with PCA and Omni Ecosystems, our team installed a multi-level native meadow alongside Hanover Prest Pavers in a Tudor Finish, ensuring both accessibility and ecological benefits for the rooftop green space.
Originally commissioned for commercial use, the Abbot Building continues to thrive as a hub for modern businesses, demonstrating the power of adaptive reuse—honoring the past while serving future generations.
PROJECT INFORMATION
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Marshall Roofing
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PCA
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Omni Native Meadow
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Shawmut Design and Construction
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Recover Green Roofs
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Recover Green Roofs
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Omni Ecosystems, Hanover Pavers, Enka Solutions, Rainbird
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Omni Ecosystems
