Home Buying

Living large in 175 square feet: This Back Bay condo wants $2,280 per square foot

Unit is in impressive historic building overlooking Commonwealth Avenue Mall.

Unit 16 at 290 Commonwealth Ave. is in a building that dates to 1890. David Ward Photography

November 19, 2024

2 minutes to read

It may not be overflowing with square footage, but the pied-à-terre at 290 Commonwealth Ave. sits in a beautiful historic Back Bay building.

Unit 16 is a 175-square-foot studio apartment listed for $399,000. The building was constructed in 1890 and was originally known as the “Fred Pope House.”

“It’s the smallest unit on the market” in Greater Boston, said Jayne Kramer of Engel & Völkers Boston, who has the listing. (A 171-square-foot condo in Provincetown is listed for $519,000.)

Walk up the brick entryway to several steps leading to the building’s covered front entry. Step into the lobby, which features a grand staircase and an elegant chandelier.

290-comm-ave-unit-16-arch — . – David Ward Photography

290-comm-ave-unit-16-lobby — . – David Ward Photography

“It’s one of the most beautiful buildings in Back Bay,” Kramer said. “There’s nothing else that looks like this.”

An elevator takes you to Unit 16, which is on the fourth floor. Boasting 10-foot ceilings, the space features the original hardwood floors.

A combined living and sleeping space that measures 128 square feet could comfortably hold a bed beside the south-facing window. The kitchenette comes with a four-burner stove, built-in microwave, and wood cabinetry above and below. A half-size refrigerator is off to the side.

290-comm-ave-unit-16-living — . – David Ward Photography

290-comm-ave-unit-16-kitchen — . – David Ward Photography

To the left of the kitchenette is a deep closet that measures 11.7 square feet. There’s also storage space above the closet that could accommodate large items like a suitcase.

The 28-square-foot full bathroom features a bathtub and clean, white tiling that pairs perfectly with the blue-painted walls. The vanity offers storage above and below.

290-comm-ave-unit-16-closet — . – David Ward Photography

290-comm-ave-unit-16-bath — . – David Ward Photography

The building uses Latch, a smart access-control system. There is a coin-operated laundry in the basement.

One of the most coveted features of the building, in addition to its historic pedigree, is its prime location across from the Back Bay’s Commonwealth Mall.

“It’s really all about location,” Kramer said. “It’s right around the corner from Newbury Street and all the shops and restaurants.”

The HOA fee is $168.41 per month, and there are $23,075 in special assessments, according to the Multiple Listing Service.

Pets are allowed with trustee approval.

Prospective investors should be aware that there’s a 30-day rental minimum in the building. Kramer has an identical unit for rent on the sixth floor that is listed for $2,000 per month.