Lark Hotels’ flagship Greater Boston property, Cambridge Common House, now open in Harvard Square

Cambridge, MA Lark, the premium New England-based development and management company encompassing multiple boutique hospitality brands, has opened their flagship Greater Boston property, Cambridge Common House. A 16-room gem located on Garden St. on the edge of iconic Harvard Sq., Cambridge Common House boasts a timeless design with nods to the area’s academia. 

“As a lifelong New Englander, I have always had my sights set on opening a Greater Boston property, but we didn’t want to debut in the city with just anything,” said Lark founder and chairman, Rob Blood. “With a rich history, prime location, and an identity that feels innately Cambridge, Cambridge Common House fits firmly in Lark’s ethos to create independent properties with a deep sense of place. It’s the perfect entry point into Greater Boston for Lark and we are so proud to welcome guests starting this spring.” 

Once home of the Howe family, the building has long been a gathering place for students, artists, and intellectuals. Over nearly two centuries, it has witnessed the city’s transformation from a post-Colonial village to a hub of commerce, activism, and innovation. Many of Cambridge Common House’s rooms overlook Cambridge Common, a public park that once served as a military training ground and barracks, and now has several memorial statues, gardens, walking paths, and a playground. 

Designed by Newburyport’s Elder & Ash, Cambridge Common House’s interior decor is rooted in traditional elements with museum-quality finishes and fixtures. Textured wallpaper in classic stripe patterns and flora and fauna motifs line the walls, and a color palette of deep greens and blues, neutrals, and gem tones create a worldly, polished environment without pretension. Rich woodwork and mouldings elevate each guest room’s original architectural charm, and working fireplaces give rooms warmth even in Boston’s chilliest months. Furniture at Cambridge Common House echoes this refined atmosphere, with vintage tufted Chesterfield chairs, mahogany canopy beds in some rooms, and built-in, deep crimson wraparound beds in the smallest accommodations. While most of the building’s design elements are anchored in tradition, striking abstract artwork provides playful contrast throughout the property. The doorway to each guest room is lined with floor-to-ceiling striped drapery, creating the feel of a grand entrance to guests’ own private pied-à-terres. 

Guests at the lodging house are welcomed to enjoy a curated housemade breakfast spread in the lounge space each morning, where there is plenty of space to gather, read, or work. Coffee, water, and sweet afternoon treats are also available daily for guests.