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The Taj (Ritz-Carlton) Hotel and Condominiums

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Ritz-Carlton
1927, Strickland, Blodgett and Law; 1981, Skidmore, Owings and Merrill. 15 Arlington St.
  • The Taj (Ritz Carlton ) Hotel and Condominiums (NRD) (Peter Vanderwarker or Antonina Smith)

Quiet and dignified, the Taj Hotel and Condominiums remains quintessentially old Boston, its strength based on its location opposite the Public Garden (BB1) and its social reputation. The hotel's elegant spaces, the café, and its famous bar enjoy views of Newbury Street and the Garden. Rusticated corners and strong string-courses distinguish its brick facade and lower limestone stories. The 1981 condominium addition, extending to Commonwealth Avenue, respects the massing and material of the earlier building. It transforms the details of the earlier hotel in a superficial manner; the penthouse becomes a mere setback and projecting corners are flattened, whereas aluminum-framed bay windows add a three-dimensional element contrasting with the more subtle articulation of its predecessor.

Writing Credits

Author: 
Keith N. Morgan

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