Boston, MA
Restoration

An elegant reminder of Boston’s architectural past, the Ames Webster Mansion in Boston’s Back Bay served as CBT’s offices for over 30 years. The brick and brownstone mansion was designed by noted architects Peabody and Stearns in 1872. Ten years later the building underwent a redesign and addition by architect John Sturgis for the family of prominent Bostonian Frederick Ames. The mansion remained in use as a private residence for 100 years. CBT subsequently converted the building into workable offices, successfully overcoming the challenge of fitting in modern office spaces while maintaining the building’s historic domestic integrity. The building’s grandeur has been preserved through careful restoration of richly carved woodwork and plaster ornamentation throughout all four floors. Building features include an elaborately carved grand staircase capped by a Victorian stained-glass skylight by John La Farge, painted murals by French artist Benjamin Constant and Byzantine mosaic tiles in the entry. CBT received a Special Preservation Award from the National Trust for Historic Preservation recognizing the restoration of the Ames Webster Mansion. The project also received a Conservation Award from the Victorian Society of America.