The Last Mansion built in East Cambridge

When a property that is so recognized by the community enters the market, you can’t help but pause and think of the part that this building has played in so many lives.  A place of reverence, respect, and lifetime celebrations. 

   Architecturally significant, it was the last mansion built in East Cambridge.  Sitting stately on the corner of Sixth and Otis, the home is neighbored by the historic Sacred Heart Church and enjoys views of its opulent façade from all of the home’s west-facing windows.  The demolition of two houses occurred to build what would be the home for Ms. Catherine Coveney by Architect John Muldoon, the Chief Designer at the Irving & Casson Furniture Company.  Built in the Queen Anne style with a nod towards Greek Revival, the remains of the bow front and palladium windows can be seen from the front and graciously enjoyed from the second floor rooms. 

​   The typical Queen Anne signature staircase with its several changes in direction, can still be enjoyed inside.  The Palladian arch, which was carried into the interior moulding details is inside on the second floor, and the deep egg and dart crown moldings are highlighted throughout the first-floor rooms.
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   Not to be missed are the restored and typical Victorian fireplaces on the first floor; with three other mantels still remaining in place throughout the second floor. 

  Upon entering, though commercial in nature, you can quickly feel the building yearning for restoration to residential use.  The Residential C-1 zoning allows the new owner to restore it to its once grand single-family nature, creatively carve out condominiums or take advantage of the open first floor and handicap accessibility for non-profit use.  Newer HVAC warms and cools the building, newer electrical and wood double-paned windows on the first and second floor, and a slate roof make this a wonderful investment.  With those costly upgrades complete, this leaves the new buyer room for creativity in the building’s new story.

   What will the new life of 140 Otis Street look like? Our website hosts basic zoning possibilities to help you begin your own due diligence.  We would enjoy showing you the over 7,500 square feet of potential.  We are deeply honored to be presenting this home to the market with its historical provenance.  For 48 years the current owners have created a bedrock of solace and a staple to Cambridge’s culture while loving and painstakingly maintaining the home for the next generation of owners. With them, we look forward to seeing the next chapter in the property’s 127 year history.

Welcome to 140 Otis Street in the heart of East Cambridge.