Despite an arduous development process laden with COVID-induced construction and supply chain delays, not to mention a myriad of development financing hurdles, the $400 million Raffles Boston is finally opening its doors in the summer of 2023. The first residence in the 146-unit condo tower officially closed for $3.3 million on June 14. The five star hotel is now available for bookings starting September 1 of 2023.
Why Raffles?
The project was spearheaded by Jordan Warshaw of the Noannet Group and Gary Saunders of the Saunders Hotel Group, who represent the Boston-based Trinity Stuart Development LLC. As they worked through development scenarios, they received interest from a host of luxury hospitality groups, but decided on Raffles due to what they deemed the best fit for the city.
The Raffles brand is nearly 150 years old. Dating back to 1887, their first and flagship location still operates in Singapore serving the internationally renowned Singapore Sling cocktail while hosting the rich and famous as they stop through the island nation. Currently, Raffles offers 18 uniquely vibrant properties across the world. Prominent Raffles locations include: Paris, London, Warsaw, Hong Kong and the Maldives, to name a few. The first North American outpost established in Raffles’ illustrious history is, indeed, right here in Boston’s Copley Square. Raffles Boston location is providing the excitement and grandeur you would expect from such a historic and luxurious enterprise.
What does this new development bring to Boston?
Positioned in the heart of Back Bay, the 35-story luxury hotel plus residences is adorned with all the bells and whistles needed for an unforgettable experience. Raffles Boston is outfitted with 146 residences and 147 hotel rooms. Amenity wise the property features a three-story Sky Lobby, the Grand Stair, 17th floor Writers’ Lounge, Ballroom, a business-oriented Board Room and an elaborate Gym & Spa with a 20-meter indoor pool.
The Sky Lobby will be where the world-class dining options reside. Michelin star recipient chef George Mendes will oversee the dining operations within the hotel. Concepts include:
- La Padrona: an Italian restaurant headed by James Beard award-winning chef Jody Adams
- Amar: a Portuguese restaurant featuring inspiration from Boston’s maritime culture
- The Long Bar & Terrace: A space for guests to enjoy cocktails with an unparalleled view of the South End
- Signature Sky Bar: Designed for piquant appetizers and drinks
- The Speakeasy: A space for guests to revel in a relaxing ambience
Stonehill Taylor, a renowned hospitality design firm, was trusted with the creative decision-making regarding the hotel rooms and hotel amenity spaces. In their design, Stonehill Taylor was determined to pay homage to Boston’s Emerald Necklace and the surroundings of Raffles Boston’s location. The Emerald Necklace refers to a stretch of green space from Back Bay to Dorchester designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, America’s first landscape architect. The park system gets its name from the way the chain appears to hang from the “neck” of the Boston peninsula. To showcase these inspirations, you will find a palpable botanical element throughout the building, a multitude of elegant copper accents to pay homage to Paul Revere’s copper plating company and materials that represent Boston’s unique architecture and remarkable history.
It quickly becomes evident that an enormous amount of time, effort and thoughtful design has gone into creating one of Boston’s most impactful real estate developments in years.
Raffles Offering Unique Leasing Feature:
Amidst the multitude of benefits that come with owning a residence at Raffles Boston, an initiative that stands out is the Pied-à-Terre program. Through this program, residents of Raffles Boston who won’t be living in their units year-round have the opportunity to lease them out to others. Tenants can either choose to pursue individual rentals, or use Raffles Boston’s preferred agency service to navigate the leasing process. This represents a unique practice in the realm of luxury condo living, and further establishes the way in which Raffles is bringing their eclectic style to the Back Bay.
Does this sound like a place for you?
The Raffles Boston is sure to contribute to the ever-expanding allure of Boston’s Back Bay neighborhood. If you want to learn more about the implications of Raffles Boston, or need help navigating the Back Bay market, get in touch with a COG agent today to discuss pricing and lifestyle in this new building!