197 Friend Street

Last year, Jones Lang Lasalle commissioned Building Envelope Technologies, Inc. to provide analysis of the existing conditions of the property, so as to facilitate the preparation of construction documents for competitive bidding and subsequently assist during the process of contract administration. 197 Friend Street in Boston, owned and occupied by Greater Boston Legal Services, is an early 20th century high-rise building structure, and includes nine levels of above grade construction. The building incorporates a concrete structure with low slope roof system characteristics and is clad on the exterior with mass masonry barrier walls, notably incorporating extensive cast stone embellishment. Previous studies performed by others had determined significant deterioration and damage existed for various aspects of the façades. It was decided that BET would undertake a comprehensive restoration program beginning with an updated evaluation and followed by the preparation of construction documents and assistance in the administration of the contract for construction. BET is regularly charged with the care of significant properties for institutions of note. Our work with historical properties has been recognized with awards over 12 times over the last decade by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and the cities of Boston and Cambridge. We also provide ongoing services with a successful history for the Museum of Fine Arts Boston, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, the Peabody Essex Museum, and others.