Nauset Construction of Needham, Mass., recently broke ground on construction at the PostMark, a mixed-use complex of condominiums and retail spaces in Reading, Mass., at the site of the historic post office at the junction of Haven and Sanborn Streets.

Nauset Construction of Needham, Mass., recently broke ground on construction at the PostMark, a mixed-use complex of condominiums and retail spaces in Reading, Mass., at the site of the historic post office at the junction of Haven and Sanborn Streets.

Forty market rate and 10 affordable condominiums will be built on five levels above the post office with 8,000 ft. of commercial space for three units.

O'Sullivan Architects of Reading worked closely with the Massachusetts and Reading Historical Commissions to create a design that preserves the Georgian Revival style façade and Corinthian columns as well as the exterior curved stairways at the front entrance. The renovated structure will be re-purposed for multiple commercial uses. Additional commercial space including two plazas which may be used for outside dining also will be constructed.

Following the selective demolition by Nauset of the rear of the building (which was added long after the original structure was built), the five-story contemporary-style residential addition will be constructed utilizing a design that complements the classic design of the post office. The one- and two-bedroom condominium homes will feature open floor plans, designer curated finishes, an abundance of natural light and energy efficient features.

The PostMark will feature an expansive common amenity space and a large resident only roof deck located on the penthouse level. The building's exterior façade will be a combination of brick and stone at the base to replicate the look of the original building, with clapboard siding and wood details to pay homage to the traditional design character.

In addition to preserving the original Post Office structure, the plan will preserve the exterior curved stairways at the front entrance to the building. The proposal adds new commercial space on the Haven Street level and two plazas, potentially for outside dining.

The new addition will be five stories with setbacks at the 4th and 5th floors forming roof terraces (the 5th story is a penthouse level with five units). A mix of one and two-bedroom homes have open floor plans, abundant light and energy efficient features.

"We see the redevelopment of the historic post office as an opportunity to not only provide transit-oriented condominiums to a market with a strong demand for housing, but to preserve an iconic building for the town of Reading," said Paul DiBiase, principal and CEO of DiBiase Homes. "We also are exploring what mix of commercial uses will best complement The PostMark and add vibrancy to downtown Reading."

CEG

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