The George Close Building

Located in mid-Cambridge, the George Close Building is a former candy factory that was converted to affordable rental housing in the 1980s. The George Close Company was nationally known for its confectionery, as well as a set of limited-edition baseball cards featuring players such as Cy Young and Ty Cobb. The exterior and interior of the seven-story building retains its industrial essence, with heavy timber structural frame, high ceilings, oversized windows, and thick masonry walls. Davis Square Architects teamed up with Just-A-Start on important improvements to this 61-unit building to maintain high-quality, energy-efficient affordable housing in a prized location where rents are at an all-time high.

The scope of work enhances the building’s energy performance and historical stature while upgrading systems, safety features, accessibility, and tenants’ comfort and well-being. An on-site management office, community meeting room, laundry facilities, and oversized “living room” lobby area complete the amenities.