Since 1886, this eight-story building has been a dream location in the heart of Boston, Massachusetts. With proximity to downtown and the Boston Common park, the residents have access to amazing views and amenities. Shortly after moving to Boston, one family wanted to take the dream further by creating a rooftop terrace to entertain guests and enjoy the view. The owner worked with R.P. Marzilli & Co., Inc., based in Medway, Massachusetts, to make their vision a reality. Their efforts earned them a 2025 Gold Award of Excellence.
“Everyone at R.P. Marzilli feels that being recognized by our industry peers is a huge accomplishment – an honor,” says Bill Greco, senior vice president of construction. “For us, the best part is that we’re the last people on site and we’re the ones who see the work complete, adding the special sauce to the project. To see that come together and get recognized in the industry makes any bad day on the project go away.”
For the design phase, Marzilli worked with Greg Lombardi of Gregory Lombardi Design. As construction began, the tight streets were a challenge to navigate, especially for deliveries. The team worked closely with building management and the police to make sure the process went smoothly. However, the crane delivery took a bit longer than expected.
“There was a protest at the park across the street on the original planned day, so we had to delay the crane delivery in order to have assistance from the police,” Greco says.
Once the cranes were delivered, the team moved quickly to get the materials to the rooftop.
“The first crane day was off-loading debris and other materials, along with prep work,” Greco says. “Then the second crane day was bringing up all the plant materials, Corten steel planters, furniture, and artificial turf.”
Marzilli worked with their plant buyers to ensure the plants and soil would arrive at the same time. Elevators were available on a limited basis for smaller materials.
The historic nature of the building posed another challenge, as changes had been made to the original roof. As the design came together for the rooftop, the dimensions for certain items didn’t match the current building. This led to several changes to the original plan. One example is the pedestals that support the roof.
“The existing roof fluctuates in pitch, so all the pedestals to support the pavers had to be changed to accommodate the roof pitches,” Greco says.
After ensuring they had all the correct measurements, the team worked with a custom steel fabricator to create certain items, including the Corten steel planters. With help from the project manager, site supervisor, and masons, they were able to fit everything in place. Many of the materials were strategically delivered as kits, which made the assembly process efficient. From planting to mason crews, everyone worked in groups of 4-12 people.
Once the construction plans were set, residents of the building were kept in the loop about the work taking place on the roof. Additionally, Marzilli took measures to minimize noise and disruption.
“As we used elevators and stairs in the building, we were conscientious to use them off hours and not disrupt the residents in their day-to-day life,” Greco adds. “On crane days, this building and the nearby buildings were notified of our plans in advance.”
After more than a year of planning and execution, the new space was ready to be enjoyed. At almost 2,000 square feet, the roof provides an intimate setting while remaining spacious. When the owners open the door onto the terrace, they’re treated to a panoramic view of the city, including the skyline and the park below.
From dining to lounging on the couch, the roof provides several entertainment areas. In one spot, glass panels on the floor allow light to penetrate the room below. An artificial lawn provides green space, while the customized Corton steel planters are home to a trio of Japanese maples. A range of terrace lights illuminate the roof at night, making it safe to move across the different areas. And finally, the project wrapped up in time for the family to enjoy another favorite view: the Fourth of July fireworks.
Interested in participating in the Awards of Excellence? Be sure to enter your projects when entries open in early 2026.
