Regency’s The Abbot Wins Historic Preservation Award

The Abbot, an iconic centerpiece in Cambridge, MA, recently received the 2024 Mayor Thomas M. Menino Legacy Award. Awarded by Preservation Massachusetts, this accolade celebrates transformative projects that embrace the community, create partnerships, and revitalize the best of the past to make something good for the future. The Abbot was one of eight projects honored with this award.

Since 1988, Preservation Massachusetts has recognized the best in preservation with its annual awards program. This year's “Lifetime of Preservation” theme celebrates the individuals and organizations that have made substantial, long-term contributions to historic preservation across the Commonwealth.

The award was accepted by John Fitzpatrick (Regency Centers) and his son Hunter, Nidhi John (PCA), and Charles Sullivan (Cambridge Historic Commission), who also was honored with the 2024 Lifetime of Preservation award.

With roots dating back to the late 1800s and early 1900s, the site consists of three buildings: The Abbot Building, which anchors the corner of the site and faces directly into Harvard Square, The Brattle Building, and a newly constructed building between them.

Regency Centers partnered with PCA, one of Greater Boston’s most innovative design firms, to restore and modernize the historic buildings and add a third one that complemented their aesthetic. The team carefully studied the architecture of Harvard Square, as well as that of the existing buildings, to bring the site back to its original condition. Preservation efforts largely involved connecting the two existing buildings with different grades and floor levels, stabilizing the original structures, and constructing a new infill building without causing disruption. 

The Abbot Building’s curved glass storefront was restored and remains an iconic focal point. Other unique design features include a top floor setback with glazing and a copper roof, vertical setbacks between the old buildings and the new addition, and the use of materials like brick, granite, metal detailing, and glazing to honor the historic nature. Green roofs on the top floor provide stormwater management and scenic views. Inside, the team honored the existing interior structures and preserved the iconic “Dewey, Cheetham & Howe” sign from NPR’s Car Talk.

Originally commissioned by Edwin Abbot for commercial use, The Abbot has housed various tenants over the years, including a pharmacy and U.S. Post Office — a true testament to its longevity and versatility. The recent restoration not only honors The Abbot’s storied past but also ensures its place as a vibrant, functional space for future generations.

We’re immensely honored and proud to receive the 2024 Mayor Thomas M. Menino Legacy Award for our work on The Abbot,” said John Fitzpatrick, Vice President, Project Management. “The Abbot's restoration is a testament to the dedication and collaboration of our entire team, and we are proud to have contributed to the enduring legacy of this iconic building.

The 2024 Mayor Thomas M. Menino Legacy Award is the second prestigious honor this project has received for historic preservation. Previously, The Abbot was recognized by the Cambridge Historical Commission with the 2022 Preservation Award, which honors property owners who conserve and protect the city's architecture.

The Abbot is a five-story block of contemporary retail, restaurants, and offices situated at the entrance to Harvard University in a highly sought-after location. The buildings offer 60,000 SF of combined office and retail space, featuring Central Rock Gym, Starbucks, F45 Training, The Comedy Studio, CAVA, El Jefe’s Taqueria, Tiger Sugar, and more.

For leasing information at The Abbot, contact DavidSherin@RegencyCenters.com.