Historic 1904 stable and blacksmith shop to be transformed into residences, artist studios and retail space
BOSTON — A historic South End building dating to 1904 is being given a new life as The Marlowe, a 44-residence condominium development that has launched sales as construction continues on the Boston project.
Developed by New Boston Ventures, The Marlowe will transform the former stable and blacksmith shop into 39 market-rate condominiums and five artist studio residences. The project will also include approximately 1,100 square feet of ground-floor retail space.
Ricardo Rodriguez & Associates of Coldwell Banker Realty is leading sales and marketing for the development. Prices are expected to range from approximately $825,000 to $1.55 million, with completion anticipated in the second quarter of 2027.
The project is designed by RODE Architects, which is leading both the architecture and interior design, with Holland Construction serving as builder.
Rather than replacing the historic structure, the development is centered on preserving its original masonry exterior while completely reconstructing the interior. The plans also call for a new sixth floor and a rear expansion, creating additional residential space while retaining the character of the original building.
“The Marlowe offers buyers the opportunity to own a new residence in a building that is closely connected to the history and character of the South End,” said Ricardo Rodriguez, principal of Ricardo Rodriguez & Associates at Coldwell Banker Realty. “The combination of the restored architecture, carefully considered interiors and access to the neighborhood’s galleries, restaurants and cultural destinations makes this a compelling addition to the Boston market.”
Historic Architecture, Contemporary Interiors
The residential collection will include one-bedroom, one-bedroom-plus, two-bedroom and two-bedroom-plus floor plans.
Many of the residences will feature ceiling heights exceeding 10 feet, along with expansive windows intended to bring natural light into the homes. Interior finishes will include wide-plank European white oak flooring, custom cabinetry, stone surfaces and integrated appliances.
The project is designed to create a contrast between the building’s industrial past and its contemporary residential use. The original masonry shell will remain a defining architectural element, while the interior will be rebuilt around modern layouts, finishes and amenities.
“Our goal of this project was to honor its 1904 masonry shell while reinventing its interior for contemporary living, weaving its historic character with modern homes and artist units,” said Jonathan Quinn AIA, LEED-AP, senior associate at RODE Architects. “We are so thrilled to revive this historic building, creating meaningful value for the community.”
The development will also incorporate artwork into its shared spaces. A gallery-inspired lobby is planned to feature commissioned artwork as well as a site-specific mural by Boston-based artist Cyrille Conan.
Residents will have access to an elevator and a common rooftop deck designed for gathering and outdoor entertaining. Planned rooftop amenities include grilling areas, a kitchenette and powder room, along with views toward the South End and downtown Boston.
A Location Shaped by Art and Design
The Marlowe is located near Boston’s SoWa Art & Design District and the former Boston Flower Exchange, placing the development within a neighborhood known for galleries, artist studios, design showrooms, restaurants and markets.
The location also provides access to several of Boston’s major employment, cultural and transportation centers, including Back Bay, Downtown Boston and the Seaport. Logan International Airport is also accessible from the neighborhood.
The inclusion of five artist studio residences is intended to connect the new development to the creative character of the surrounding area, while the retail component will add commercial space at street level.
The project comes as the South End continues to see the redevelopment and adaptive reuse of older commercial and industrial properties, adding new housing while retaining elements of the neighborhood’s architectural history.
Sales Underway
Sales for The Marlowe are being handled exclusively by Ricardo Rodriguez & Associates of Coldwell Banker Realty.
The 44 residences are expected to be completed in the second quarter of 2027, giving buyers an opportunity to purchase into a development that combines new residential construction with the restoration and reuse of a century-old South End structure.
