Back Bay is known for its historic, iconic brownstones that gradually merge together with the so-called “high spine” of the city. However, if you look more closely at the neighborhood’s inventory, you’ll also find another building type that merges the best of both worlds: The “New York-Style” Condo Building. These are mid-size elevator buildings, frequently with full-time concierge and doormen, reminiscent of Manhattan’s pre-war co-op style buildings.
If this kind of housing feels like it could be for you, here are ten New York-style buildings in Back Bay that stand out:
Zero Marlborough
6 Arlington St., Lower Back Bay
Located on Arlington Street, in the heart of Boston’s timeless Back Bay, this is one of a select few buildings with direct views over the Boston Public Garden. Just steps from stylish Newbury Street, this boutique, pre-war building was converted into a condos in 2009. The building offers valet garage parking as an amenity and many of the units span entire floors – and get to take advantage of direct elevator access!
The Carlton House
2 Commonwealth Ave., Lower Back Bay
Occasionally known as the “Old Ritz,” The Carlton House is one of the city’s most exclusive (and expensive!) residences. Prices have been known to hit $3,000 to $4,000+ per square foot here. Opportunities to reside in this captivating gem are rare – but it’s always worth keeping an eye out. It is 17 stories in height which gives it extra special view lines around the city. The penthouses have incredible private roof terraces, too!
Haddon Hall
29 Commonwealth Avenue., Lower Back Bay
Located at the corner of Berkeley Street and Commonwealth Avenue, Haddon Hall is one of the newest New York-Style buildings to enter Back Bay’s residential scene. This exclusive mid-rise building, among the tallest in the neighborhood, features just nine floor-through luxury residences. These homes offer the pinnacle in luxury living experiences with high-end finishes, garage parking and, of course, a 24-hour concierge. During the building’s sellout in 2021, the homes in this sought-after building commanded prices exceeding $3,000 per square foot.
The Somerset
416 Commonwealth Ave., Upper Back Bay
Much like a Park Avenue co-op, The Somerset offers spacious residences with old-world charm along Commonwealth Avenue. Originally an opulent hotel, this building retains its historic elegance while offering modern conveniences, including a private courtyard, gym and outdoor swimming pool. Living at The Somerset means enjoying some unique amenities like the 10-foot-deep, heated outdoor pool – one of Back Bay’s best-kept secrets!
The Vendome
160 Commonwealth Ave., Lower Back Bay
Also originally a luxury hotel, The Vendome is one of Back Bay’s most recognizable mid-size buildings. Its grand Beaux-Arts facade, wrought-iron balconies, and elegant lobby give it a distinct Upper West Side feel. This building’s condos do not price as high as many of the others on this list and most of the units are smaller in size.
Belvedere
100 Belvidere St., Prudential
The renowned Belvedere is a mid-rise building with 61 units conveniently attached to the extensive Prudential Center complex. The Belvedere’s unique architecture underscores a modern comfort within, and residents enjoy superior access to all that Boston has to offer. Here, room service provides everyday luxury, and an expansive rooftop terrace offers exceptional views across the Christian Science Plaza and on towards Fenway.
50 Commonwealth Ave
50 Commonwealth Ave., Lower Back Bay
A refined mid-rise, 50 Commonwealth Ave combines traditional Boston architecture with the conveniences of a well-managed New York-style co-op. Its prime location on the corner of Comm and Berkeley Street make it only a one block walk to the Public Garden, not to mention lower Newbury Street. The generous first floor lobby leads to an elevator which takes you up to the units. The top floor is the ninth which makes it at least three to four floors higher than most of the surrounding buildings.
The Windsor Place
390 Commonwealth Ave., Upper Back Bay
This boutique mid-rise building blends classic and modern, much like Manhattan’s co-op residences in the Upper East and Upper West Sides. Featuring a traditional brick facade and stylish interiors, it offers an elegant yet intimate living experience at more modest pricing levels.
The Charlesgate
4 Charlesgate East, Upper Back Bay
Like several others on our list, this property was originally built as a hotel in the late 19th century. The Charlesgate now offers elegant condos that retain their historic charm. Its ornate detailing, mid-size scale, and classic design elements make it a true New York-style residence in Back Bay. This is also the most proximate address in Back Bay to Fenway Park and Kenmore Square.
The Braemore
464 Commonwealth Ave., Technically… Kenmore/Fenway
This last one is a little outside of our scope, but a gem if you are looking for this kind of set-up at a slight discount. A historic gem on Commonwealth Avenue, The Braemore’s grand lobby, intricate detailing, and pre-war aesthetics make it stand out. The rooftop deck and classic New York-style entrance add to its charm.
