Shawmut Design and Construction completes $10 million modernization of 271,000 s/f office property

116 Huntington Avenue - Boston, MA

Boston, MA Columbia Property Trust, Inc. completed a $10 million reimagining and modernization of 116 Huntington Ave., a 271,000 s/f Class-A office property that is located in the city’s historic Back Bay district and 80% leased.  The extensive renovation of the lobby, terraces, and exterior was led for Columbia by Shawmut Design and Construction, in partnership with architect and interior designer Dyer Brown and project manager Redgate.

Columbia has made upgrades to the top two penthouse floors of the 15-story building, which total 25,366 s/f. The highlight of the renovation is the installation of two new outdoor terraces, exclusively for use by the future penthouse tenant, that provide a total of 1,500 s/f of private outdoor space and offer city views, including the Charles River, Christian Science Center and Boston’s South End.

In addition, Columbia has opened interior access to an oculus window that hallmarks the building.

When we acquired 116 Huntington in 2015, we were drawn to its location in Boston’s most vibrant neighborhood and to the opportunity to reimagine it as a best-in-class office destination,” said Adam Popper, senior vice president, eastern region, for Columbia Property Trust.

Columbia also undertook renovations to the main entrance, including an updated façade featuring a two-story curtain wall. Designed by Dyer Brown and fabricated by Pilkington Systems in Europe, the new glass entry allows natural light into the lobby, while bronze panels wrap the exterior of the building. Columbia also added new sidewalks, installed an upgraded exterior lighting system, and modernized the common areas, including floor lobbies, corridors, and restrooms.

Leasing efforts at 116 Huntington are being led by David Martel, Gil Daily, and Jim Brady of Newmark Grubb Knight Frank. 

“Shawmut’s work with the reimagining of 116 Huntington Avenue highlights what differentiates us from other companies and what sets Columbia Property Trust apart from its competitors,” said Les Hiscoe, chief executive officer at Shawmut. “Our team is nimble and flexible enough to overcome the challenges of completing the project with as little disruption as possible to tenants, including the full-service restaurant, which remained open throughout the duration of the project.”

116 Huntington offers a convenient location in the heart of the Back Bay, surrounded by shopping, hotels, and world-class dining options, including the Lucca Back Bay Restaurant located within the building.  Transportation is easily accessible, with the Back Bay subway and train stations just a short walk away, and the building also features efficient floorplates, 24-hour security, and on-site parking.  Notable tenants include American Tower, GE Healthcare, and Brigham and Women’s Hospital. 

“The strategic redesign positions Columbia’s asset at 116 Huntington to compete for the best possible tenants, thanks to our creative collaboration with Shawmut and Redgate on this complete building upgrade,” said Deniz Ferendeci, director of building services for Dyer Brown. “With elements like the frameless glass facade at the entrance, the redesign delivers on the promise of raising the property’s prestige and, ultimately, its value.”