Note about the photos: I was on a hard hat tour, so the photos came out a bit rough. Some guide to what you are seeing... 3 and 4 are some of the first floor demo, 5 is the new ramp to basement parking, 6 and 7 are of the core that they are removing to make way for a multi story glass domed atrium, and 8 and 9 are examples of some of the unit buildout. The rest of the photos were taken recently, from some of the more finished units.

Current Events

More info, including leasing info, at www.WestminsterLofts.com

This property is the cornerstone of Cornish Properties' revitalization effort. Each of the 97 loft-style apartments are designed to provide for the maximum amount of natural light and ceiling height with an open floor plan. An ambitious central atrium opens the large block of connected buildings up to natural light, and opaque glass panels on the atrium facing side of the units let in light from the center as well as from the ample windows on the outside.

Some of the more interesting design elements found are exposed columns and sliding wooden doors separating kitchens from living space. Original elements, such as wood floors, columns and original beams were saved whenever possible. Replacement wood floors are made from bamboo instead of trees (other hardwoods). All units will be of varying sizes ranging from 835 square feet to 2,712 square feet, and rents range in price from $1,100 to $2,800 per month, depending on the unit size and location within the building.

History

What is now known as the Peerless Building is actually comprised of five individual buildings. Located at 229 Westminster Street at the corner of Union, the two most prominent are the Callendar, McAuslan & Troup building designed by Walker & Gould and The William H. Low Estate building, designed by Martin & Hall. This cluster of buildings, except for the Hannah Green Estate building (Paolino Properties), make up the entire block of Westminster between Eddy and Union Streets. This block was famous for housing the largest and most successful regional department stores until the 1980’s when it closed its doors.

Anecdotes

Lillias Valentine Goff Picard  My great-grandfather was the “McAuslan” noted in the “Callendar McAuslan & Troup” in the façade of the building from the old Boston Store. I sincerely hope these names will be preserved in the façade as a reminder of the history of this fine old building.

D Cuozzo  While attending school at Johnson & Wales, I would shop occasionally at Peerless. Peerless was the first store I recieved credit at.

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