The Lucas

Finegold Alexander Architects (www.faainc.com) proudly announces completion of The Lucas (www.thelucasboston.com), a 33-unit luxury condominium residence, formerly the late 19th century Holy Trinity German Church at 136 Shawmut Avenue in Boston’s South End. The 1 to 3-bedroom units are each completely highly individualized, based on the architectural details of the stone walls, tower, and arched windows.. Developer New Boston Ventures reports that The Lucas sold out more than one year prior to completion with prices ranging from $1 to $3.5 million.

This was the result of retaining an architecturally significant landmark and creating a spectacular result that harkens to its past. “The design team sought to harmoniously marry the old and the new,” said Ellen Anselone, AIA, a Principal at Finegold Alexander Architects. The former 1877 German Trinity Catholic Church was originally designed by Patrick Keely. “The new design approach created a striking steel and glass contemporary design rising out of massive stone walls of the former church, while respecting the architectural and tectonic qualities of the original structure.”

“The project essentially inserted a new eight-story building within the existing Roxbury Puddingstone walls and 100’ tall tower,” said Tony Hsiao, Director of Design, Finegold Alexander Architects. The eight-story glass-and-steel building bursts through of the church’s former roof, with steel columns continuing the lines of stone buttresses skyward in an eye-popping celebration of classic and contemporary architecture.

“Retaining the stone and granite exterior of the building was significant: the building encompasses historic architectural details and materials that couldn’t be duplicated today,” said Jim Alexander, Senior Principal, Finegold Alexander Architects. “This development is a major step in the evolutionary reimagining of Boston’s historic buildings for contemporary use, and we are honored to have been able to participate.”

The 1,000- to 3,000-square foot units have a high ceilings, terraces, and luxury amenities including a concierge, a gym, a library/lounge, garage parking and direct access elevator to most units. The preservation of the original façade allowed for the main entry and two of the units to have private street entrances framed by Gothic arches and rose windows. The former bell tower is now incorporated into several of the condominiums.

About Finegold Alexander Architects (www.faainc.com)
We create imaginative, inspired and transformative architecture. Architecture established by a collective sense of what is possible. Architecture built on client and community needs and values. Architecture derived from a comprehensive knowledge founded on 50 years of experience. We thrive on the complex. We seek exciting and innovative solutions. We delight in the recognition that something worthwhile has been created. We listen. Our buildings speak.