"They are absolutely magnificent," relays Abrams Properties principal Matthew Abrams, whose firm has a lengthy track record of revitalizing aging commercial buildings. Abrams adds that VinCo's new urbanism approach enhances the allure for prospective residential tenants. "There really is no other mixed-use project like Chestnut Green," he says. "Tenants can live in the apartments, work in the offices, walk to the supermarket and day care, and play in 40 acres of recreational fields." A shopping plaza near completion will accommodate a bank, dry cleaner, hair salon, Irish pub, restaurant and Walgreen's pharmacy.

Monthly rents are being set from $1,200 to $2,500, while 14 affordable apartments will be available for tenants earning 80% of median income. Scheduled to open next June, the project will include one and two-bedroom units, as well as two-bedroom plus den or loft layouts, ranging from 780 sf to 2,800 sf. "The existing buildings at Chestnut Green have many unique qualities that allow us to create remarkable space," says Abrams, including certain units that will feature 20-foot ceilings.

The developer promises "condominium-quality finishes," including granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, tile baths and walk-in closets. Tenant amenities run from a billiards hall and fitness center to a media room and roof deck. Despite the modern elements, the structures are being restored in accordance with National Park Service Historic Guidelines, with upgrades to the windows, exterior trim, slate roofs and repointing of brickwork. The buildings did suffer years of neglect upon closing, but Abrams expresses confidence that the restoration will yield a desirable environment. "It's in surprisingly good shape," says Abrams, whose firm has tackled similar reclamation challenges in such markets as Lowell and Worcester.