On the Market: A Cavernous Live-Work Condo in Cambridge

Love to be surrounded by books and art? This former elevator factory is the home for you.


Photo by Justin Anfuso/Anfuso Imaging LLC

75 Richdale Ave. #15, Cambridge
Price: $4,000,000
Size: 4,621 square feet
Bedrooms: 2
Baths: 3

Though $4 million for a two-bedroom may sound like a price tag reserved exclusively for Beacon Hill, these Porter Square digs have 4,621 square feet to earn their worth. The lofts, originally two units since merged into one two-story condo, now boast three bathrooms, two kitchens and laundry units, two parking spaces, a massive walk-in closet, and plenty of skylights.

Take a closer look at the architecture, and glean a more historical value. Though they’ve since been painted white, exposed brick walls are still discernible in several rooms. Ceilings made up of I-beams and wooden planks also hint at a former use for this building, as well as soaring ceilings—21 feet on the first floor. Payne Elevator Company once used the space to build and test their lifts. Manufacturing took place on the first level, while administrative offices occupied the second floor.

The built-in divide is now perfect for a live-work scenario. Oak floors line the 1000-square-foot studio, currently an artist’s oasis that can be converted into whichever type of workspace you need. An enclosed study features warm maple flooring and multiple walls of built-in shelves, ideal for filing away research or stashing a library of collectibles.

Upstairs, the gleaming hardwood continues, as does the plethora of built-in shelves. The refreshingly open layout makes the 2,400-square-foot floor feel even larger, and plenty of windows, directional lighting, and ceiling fans create a space that appears bright and summery all year long. A cozy window seat, a walk-in shower with river pebble flooring, and an additional office space encourage you to relish a luxurious and productive morning before heading downstairs to get to your creative practice.

After a day of hard work in this dual-purpose sunny residence, head down the stairs—or more fittingly, hop in the in-unit elevator—to take the five-minute stroll to Porter Square where you can reward yourself with a cocktail.

For information, contact Louise Olson, Robert Paul Properties, robertpaul.com

Photo by Justin Anfuso/Anfuso Imaging LLC

Photo by Justin Anfuso/Anfuso Imaging LLC

Photo by Justin Anfuso/Anfuso Imaging LLC

Photo by Justin Anfuso/Anfuso Imaging LLC

Photo by Justin Anfuso/Anfuso Imaging LLC

Photo by Justin Anfuso/Anfuso Imaging LLC

Photo by Justin Anfuso/Anfuso Imaging LLC

Photo by Justin Anfuso/Anfuso Imaging LLC

Photo by Justin Anfuso/Anfuso Imaging LLC

Photo by Justin Anfuso/Anfuso Imaging LLC

Photo by Justin Anfuso/Anfuso Imaging LLC

Photo by Justin Anfuso/Anfuso Imaging LLC

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