On the Market: A Luxe Condo in a Converted Catholic Church

Ever dream of sliding around on a library ladder and gazing through stunning stained glass windows? This South Boston coop is the home for you.


converted church condo in South Boston

Photo via Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

45 West Broadway #301, South Boston
Price: $839,000
Size: 877 square feet
Bedrooms: 1
Baths: 1

Pews and pulpits have been pushed aside to transform this Southie stronghold, formerly the St. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, into 44 elegant condos. Now, one of these rare units is on the market, and it’s just as divine as you would hope.

The church was built in 1848, then reconstructed five years later following a fire. It was finally transformed into the unique residences that stand today in 2003, and the modifications that have been made since have only added to the home’s artistry. Unit 301 is one of the few condos to retain the original stained glass and pointed arches—it’s impossible not to notice them as light pours through the multi-colored panes, each window a unique mosaic.

The arch-framed living room centers around a custom limestone and marble fireplace, backed by an oak-paneled accent wall. The open room flows into a dining area, where a hoop chandelier hangs from the ceiling, surrounded by a hand-carved quatrefoil embellishment.

At the foot of the stairs, a sitting area and alcove with a built-in desk and shelves create an athenaeum-like aesthetic. The book racks can hold roughly 400 books, and to access the ones above the high doorway, a wooden ladder slides on a track. As if that’s not nifty enough, some shelves contain hidden compartments for secret storage of valuables.

At the top of the spiraled wrought iron staircase, a petite bedroom receives plenty of sun with a prominent skylight. Across the way, oak woodwork conceals the closet space. Another moving ladder connects the bedroom to a bonus loft; currently used as an artist’s nest, this lair is also an adept space for practicing yoga, reading a book, or even having a spiritual moment in this former religious institution.

For more information, contact Donna Charpentier, Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty, gibsonsothebysrealty.com

Photo via Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

Photo via Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

Photo via Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

Photo via Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

Photo via Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

Photo via Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

Photo via Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

Photo via Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

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