Goncalves restores historic First Parish building into 20 apartments

BROCKTON, MA Developer Joseph Goncalves completed the renovation of the historic First Parish Building and is set to open this month. The three-story building, once condemned and a priority for redevelopment, will contribute to the transformation of downtown, into a 24-hour, live/work/visit destination.

Located at 19 Main St., One Nine Residences is a full renovation and preservation of the brick building, and will include 20 market-rate apartments with modern finishes, efficient HVAC, amenities, and ground-floor retail space. The redevelopment was designed by BKA Architects.

“For many, the red ‘X’ on a condemned building can represent a challenge too difficult to overcome, but in the case of the First Parish building we saw an opportunity, namely a beautiful old building with great bones and a short walk from the commuter rail,” said Goncalves. “We’re proud of our work to save the building and transform a true diamond in the rough into One Nine Residences, a modern, amenity-rich building replete with historical detail that will contribute to a rapidly redeveloping downtown Brockton.”

Efforts have been made to retain the building’s historic features and appearance. An original central staircase has been preserved and updated to conform to 21^st century building codes. Recently uncovered “Brockton Times” signage painted on the exterior side wall of the adjacent 1897 Times Building,  has been restored and remains visible inside the renovated building.

One Nine Residences will become just the latest new units of housing brought online. The market-rate units are designed to appeal to those currently priced out of the Boston rental market. The Brockton MBTA Commuter Rail station provides a one-seat ride to downtown Boston in just over half an hour.

The new apartment units feature contemporary finishes and amenities, including keyless entry, a secure package delivery room, LED lighting, Navien tankless water heaters and in-unit laundry. High ceilings and oversized windows provide a spacious feel to the units. Tenant parking located at the nearby mayor Bill Carpenter Parking Garage is provided at no additional cost. The ground-level commercial space has floor-to-ceiling windows, with an interior that is visible to passing pedestrians and motorists.