WS Development Plans Mixed-Use Transformation Of Former Chestnut Hill Movie Theater
A long-vacant movie theater in Chestnut Hill is set to be transformed into a mixed-use project with space for over 20 retailers and restaurants.
WS Development is planning to redevelop the former theater at 27 Boylston St., part of its The Street Chestnut Hill complex, into 90K SF of retail, office and community space across three levels, it announced Thursday. It expects to complete the project in 2023.
The AMC movie theater on the site closed in 2013, the same year that the Showcase Cinema SuperLux opened in another part of The Street, according to Wicked Local.
“As The Street continues to evolve as a lifestyle destination, we are thrilled to share details of this major renovation," Alana Stein, general manager of The Street Chestnut Hill, said in a release. "It will welcome so many incredible new businesses to the neighborhood as well as add even more personality to the property and new experiences for our community to enjoy.”
In partnership with architect firm Sasaki, the project will be designed to “embrace and highlight some of the original features of the existing building to pay homage to its history,” according to the release. The project will also add a new community gathering space, including a 765 SF sunken patio and a pedestrian area at the building's original loading dock.
There are over 40 existing tenants within The Street Chestnut Hill, including the first OddFellows Ice Cream Co., Shake Shack, Blue Bottle, Warby Parker and Chilacates.
WS Development has been active across the Boston market, earlier this month signing Alamo Drafthouse to open its first Boston movie theater at 60 Seaport Blvd., part of WS Development's large Seaport portfolio. The developer is also working with the Boston Red Sox to develop a new 2.1M SF project surrounding Fenway Park.
