BOSTON – Kaplan Construction, a WBE general contractor and construction management firm providing comprehensive building programs across Greater Boston, announced that it was honored with two Excellence in Construction Awards (EICA) from the Massachusetts Chapter of the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC MA).
The company received two Eagle awards, the highest level of recognition that can be bestowed by the ABC. Congregation Kehillath Israel received the Eagle Award in the category of Historical Restorations/Renovations over $1MM, and The Revolution Hotel received the Eagle Award in the category of Commercial Construction over $5MM.
Over 250 ABC members gathered at the Westin Waltham Hotel on November 21st to recognize and celebrate the very best construction projects its companies have to offer. prestigious Eagle Award represents the pinnacle of achievement and recognizes overall excellence regarding project execution, craftmanship, safety, innovative elements and challenges, and client satisfaction.
Congregation Kehillath Israel
Kaplan oversaw the two-phased addition, restoration and renovation of the historic Congregation Kehillath Israel (KI) in Brookline, Mass.
Phase one consisted of an extensive exterior renovation of the existing sanctuary building and schoolhouse on-campus buildings, which were originally constructed in 1924. Phase two of the project included the interior renovation of the sanctuary and adjacent school building, totaling 30,000 SF. The interior renovations required heavy structural modifications with the installation of new bathrooms and modern HVAC, mechanical, and lighting systems.
During the second phase of the project, a 10,000 SF addition was completed, which included a catering kitchen and social hall that connects to the sanctuary through a sunlit atrium, and will be used for hosting wedding receptions, Bar and Bat Mitzvahs, and other special events. The synagogue also hosts a dedicated space for Congregation Mishkan Tefila, who has co-located with KI on their Brookline campus.
One EICA judge commented, “Excellent solutions to substantial challenges in an urban site, extreme attention to historic detail by owner and regulators.” Another noted, “Kaplan brought innovative solutions to the project, while maintaining the history of the site.”
The Revolution Hotel
Kaplan completed renovations for the Revolution Hotel, converting a former hostel into an urban boutique hotel located at 40 Berkeley Street in Boston. Built within the existing walls of one of America’s first YWCAs, the company renovated guest rooms, bathrooms, and common areas, throughout the seven-story, 77,000 SF building. Kaplan upgraded many other interior features of the existing building, including energy-efficient windows, amenity areas, and a lobby which showcases custom concrete flooring and a custom mural. Exterior work included a full roof replacement and improvements to the private courtyard. Kaplan also did a full fit-out to accommodate a basement bar, lounge, and fitness room. The bar and lounge functions as the co-working space Conspire during the day. The hotel has been open to the public since December 2018.
The EICA judges stated this was a “very complex project, successfully completed, quality outcome.”
ABC MA is the largest construction trade association in the Commonwealth, representing some 470 local general contractor, subcontractor, and supplier and associate companies that employ more than 20,000 workers throughout Massachusetts.
