Project Spotlight: 3 Over 1 Ground-Up Construction Near South Boston’s Iconic L Street

Located near the corner of South Boston’s famous L Street, this project marked the complete transformation of a long-abandoned single-family home. After sitting derelict for years, the structure had become a neighborhood eyesore. Abacus Builders and General Contractors, recognized as one of Boston’s best home builders, was hired to turn this property into a stunning luxury residential development, contributing much-needed housing to the area.

Following an extensive civic engagement process and receiving approval from the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA), we finalized plans for this ground-up 3 over 1 construction project. Once we secured all required documentation from the ISD, including both the ERT and demolition permits, work began to transform the lot.

The project involved tearing down the old structure and replacing it with a modern residential building using a 3 over 1 construction type. The exterior features a blend of brick and clapboard siding, complemented by a classic mansard roof, creating a design that is both timeless and in harmony with the surrounding neighborhood in South Boston’s booming real estate market.

Key features of this luxury development include:

• ADA-compliant wheelchair lift for full accessibility
• Heated garage parking, a sought-after feature in Boston real estate
• Smart intercom systems for enhanced security and convenience
• Ample storage space in the common areas

The penthouse unit stands out with stunning city views, offering a rare perspective of Boston’s skyline and adding significant value to the building. The interior design and features, such as the premium finishes and smart home technology, position this project as a top-tier property in the area.

Maximizing the lot size, we designed minimal side and rear setbacks, which were utilized as a second means of egress, aligning with city safety standards. What was once an unused, derelict structure is now a luxury condo development that the community appreciates and welcomes.

This project was one of our first to be featured in time-lapse format on our YouTube channel, where viewers can watch the entire construction process unfold—from demolition to the final build. Be sure to visit our channel to see how we transformed this once-vacant property into a vibrant part of the South Boston real estate landscape.

The project took approximately 12 months to complete, with an average build cost of around $250 per square foot. Despite the challenges, the collaboration with the South Boston community and local officials made this project a tremendous success, and we’re proud to have delivered high-quality, affordable housing to the area.