First Republic Bank
Award Winning Historic Preservation in Harvard Square
First Republic Bank’s flagship Cambridge, MA location anchors a critical intersection in the heart of Harvard Square. Located at 47 Brattle Street across from the landmark William Brattle House, it sits on what was once nicknamed Tory Row and has been called one of the most famous streets in America.
Recognizing its significant place in history and prominence in modern-day Harvard Square, First Republic Bank sought out Analogue Studio’s historic renovation expertise. The bank wanted to embrace this location by restoring the aging building while also adding large new glass storefront openings along a long stretch of solid stucco in a major pedestrian district. Throughout the project, Analogue Studio worked closely with the Cambridge Historical Commission to study the history of the building and develop an historically appropriate approach to the modifications.
To add the new openings, we replicated the original storefront design along Brattle Street around the corner. This required a historically faithful replication of the existing decorative precast stone pilaster and cornice design. Original pieces were carefully removed, cast, and used to replicate the architectural features on the Church Street elevation, seamlessly integrating the new construction with the historic originals.
The project has transformed what was once a lackluster façade into a welcoming and transparent storefront spanning two major streets and refreshing a blank stretch of sidewalk. Restoring the architectural details of the building reflects the historical significance of the neighborhood while embracing its modern context.
Winner of a 2019 Preservation Award from the Cambridge Historical Commission
Read more about our Award Winning Historic Preservation Work: Waverley Hall, 18 – 24 JFK Street
Cambridge MA
Photography: Elisif Brandon