The Driscoll Building

Boston, MA

The Driscoll Building, located at 715 Boylston Street, part of the Boston Landmark’s Commission Back Bay Architectural District, received a full façade restoration. The glazed terra cotta façade constructed in 1908 and originally designed by Peabody & Stearns was experiencing deterioration as evidenced through isolated cracks, spalls, deteriorated glazed finishes as well as failed mortar joints. GRLA was selected by L/R Construction, on behalf of the building owner, to assess the terra cotta veneer conditions and underlying components, develop repair solutions to preserve the historic façade. 

The building underwent an exterior restoration that took a total of three months to complete including repointing, terra cotta repair, and the application of new coatings and glazing to replicate the original glazed terra cotta finish. GRLA worked closely with L/R Construction, masonry sub-contractor Allstar Waterproofing and Conproco Corp. who was responsible for providing the coatings and repair materials. GRLA conducted periodic site visits during construction, coordinated coating adhesion testing by the manufacturer and concluded the project by providing a Boston Façade Ordinance inspection.