The Stunning Transformation of the Former St. Gabriel’s Church

October 22, 2021

After being given the opportunity to meticulously design and artfully restore an iconic Boston landmark, The Overlook at St. Gabriel’s has come back to life. Follow along with us as we step back into history and reflect back on the stunning transformation of the former St. Gabriel’s Church throughout the years.

1908

The Roman Catholic Passionist Order acquires the 14-acre hilltop Nevins Estate and begins construction of the St Gabriel’s monastery.

1910s

The monastery completes construction and begins use. The Olmsted Brothers are hired to landscape the property’s front open space.

1929

St. Gabriel’s Church was constructed from 1927-1929 in the ornate Neo-Renaissance style with colorful stoned glass and soaring cathedral ceilings.

1950s

Throughout this time, over 125,000 laymen participate in religious retreats at St. Gabriel’s Monastery.

1969

The Fatima Shrine is constructed and operates continually to this day. 5,000 people attended their first event.

1978

The Passionist decided to close St. Gabriel’s monastery due to financial concerts and lack of personnel.

1980s

St. Elizabeth’s Medical Center purchases the property, initially using the monastery as the school of nursing. Fearing demolition, the Brighton community petitioned to designate the property as a Boston landmark. After years of discussion, the monastery was designated as a Boston landmark in 1989, ensuring its protection.

2006

St. Gabriel’s Church closes and is deconsecrated by the Archdiocese of Boston. It would remain dormant for the next 9 years.

2015

The property is purchased through a joint venture between CC&F, PeakMade and Blue Vista Capital. Over the next two years, a master plan is developed with the community to build in a harmonious way; reimagining the property as a new residential space, while also preserving the historic buildings and open space.

2018

Restoration of the monastery, church, and green space is underway, along with the construction of the new residential buildings. Construction would continue through 2022.

2020

Monastery and church renovations are completed. Efforts were made to meticulously restore and preserve architectural detail while also affording residents every modern convenience and tasteful finishes in each apartment home.

2021

The Grand opening of the 555-unit living campus. A community-first approach lies at the center of The Overlook at St. Gabriel’s – from the revival of the neighborhood landmark to the communal design and consideration of residents.

 

Now known as The Overlook at St. Gabriel’s, our expansive living space alters your expectations for city living with carefully restored and reimagined historic buildings combined with modern luxuries. Live in history when you lease a studio, 1, 2, 3, or 4-bedroom apartment at our unique Brighton community.

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