Imagine, if you will, Boston in 1873. The Codman Building stands before us. It is a testament to architectural resilience and style.
The Codman Building is located at 55 Kilby Street. It is also known as 10 Liberty Square. This historic building showcases a unique blend of architectural designs.
Initially, Sturgis and Brigham designed the first four stories. They employed the Gothic Revival style. This section of the Codman Building was completed in 1874. It stands as the sole surviving commercial design from the firm in the Financial District.
Later, before 1898, three additional floors were added. These upper floors exhibit a more typical Late Victorian style. The Codman Building embodies two distinct eras of design.
Look closely at the Kilby Street façade. Notice its three-bay design. The entrance features a recessed Tudor arch. The side windows are flat-arched at street level. Brick piers divide the upper floors vertically. Terra cotta banding and cornices provide horizontal accents. A bracketed cornice sits above the third level.
Consider the Water Street side. It extends to seven bays. It mirrors the details of the front. The Hawkins Street side is less detailed. Its fenestration is irregular. However, the corner bays retain some detailing.
Originally, the fourth level had a flat roof. It was not a mansard roof. The Codman Building’s design evolved over time.
The James M. and Richard Codman Building at 44-48 Kilby Street is a different building. It sits at 7 Liberty Square. This structure features brick and two shades of yellow freestone. It occupies a curved portion of the street. It presents two facades overlooking Kilby Street and Liberty Square.
In 1983, the Codman Building earned a place on the National Register of Historic Places. Its historical and architectural significance was officially recognized. The National Register reference number is 83004097.
The Massachusetts Historical Commission also recognizes the Codman Building. Their Inventory No. is BOS.1815.
So, as we stand here, remember the Codman Building. Think of its evolution and its place in Boston’s architectural history. It is a structure of enduring beauty.