The transformation of 51 Melcher Street into a state-of-the-art life sciences facility represents a landmark achievement for Wise Construction and our project partners. Situated in the heart of the South Boston Waterfront, this former Boston Wharf Company building, originally constructed in 1915, was reborn through a careful balance of preservation and modernization. With its rich historical legacy and challenging design, the project demanded not only technical expertise, but also innovative problem-solving and seamless collaboration—qualities that defined the team from the earliest stages of demolition through obtaining the final C of O.
Strategic Planning and Seamless Coordination
Spanning approximately 100,000 SF, the building was converted from office use into a high-performance space supporting the growing demands of the life sciences industry. The updated square footage includes a 60/40 lab-to-office split across nine floors, with no increase to the original footprint—a deliberate move to preserve the historic integrity of the structure while outfitting it with critical infrastructure. That balance defined much of the project’s strategy.
The initial phases of any construction project are often defining moments, laying the foundation for its overall success. From the earliest planning meetings, lean construction practices played a central role in aligning teams and timelines. A pull planning session early on, led by Project Manager Stephanie Pappas, brought all trade partners together in a single room to lay out their upcoming work plans. Those sessions weren’t just about creating a schedule, they were about building accountability and cohesion from the ground up, ensuring that everyone from our different trades was on the same page.
Modern Infrastructure, Historic Integrity
Adapting the building for life science use required a robust overhaul of MEPs. The team installed nine AHUs, one per floor, picked and assembled in 45 total pieces. This work demanded significant coordination, particularly during crane picks and floor-by-floor installations. Meanwhile, new rooftop equipment, a switchgear room, boilers, pump skids, pH neutralization systems, and an electrical room were all added without compromising the structure’s historical fabric. Even the smallest details got attention—like making sure the new louvers matched the original façade and keeping the historic bridge intact with updated windows.
The exterior scope was minimal by design but not without its challenges. A new loading dock stair and canopy were added, and a complex underground stormwater retention tank system was installed below an extremely tight footprint. This 4,000-gallon system, made from 13,000-pound precast concrete units, was coordinated with surgical precision. With adjacent properties mere feet away, temporary trench boxes were used to support a neighboring generator during excavation. At the same time, underground electrical work, a new transformer, and the foundation for a 200kW generator were all placed in overlapping zones—a true ‘all-hands-on-deck’ moment that exemplified the field team’s adaptability.
Additional equipment milestones included the crane pick and installation of four 20,000-pound air source heat pump chillers, which required coordination not only between trade partners but also with the City of Boston.
Logistical Expertise in an Urban Setting
Construction in dense, urban environments comes with inherent logistical challenges. At peak activity, up to 80 workers were onsite daily. The Wise project team implemented weekly foremen’s meetings to ensure that safety, sequencing, and scheduling remained aligned. Software, including Voyage Control, was used to coordinate deliveries and avoid congestion, helping to prevent downtime or double bookings at the loading dock. One major logistical improvement involved constructing a new freight elevator shaft within the building, repurposing the footprint of a former stairwell. This allowed for smoother material flow during construction and laid the groundwork for long-term operational efficiency.
Historic renovation also calls for some unique challenges and opportunities regarding design. In this project, it meant minimizing the visibility of new infrastructure on the roof and making trade-offs. For example, valuable interior floor area was used to house mechanical equipment, reducing the amount that had to go on the roof, which preserved the building’s outward appearance. Inside, high ceilings were maintained where possible, and exposed brick and beam elements were thoughtfully retained to honor the building’s past.
Building for the Future
Wise’s approach to sustainability and community impact was evident throughout the project. In partnership with The Furniture Trust, surplus office furniture was upcycled and donated to local nonprofits, reducing landfill waste while benefiting the broader community. At the same time, a collaboration with Essex North Shore Agricultural & Technical School gave students an immersive introduction to construction in Boston. Alongside Leggat McCall Properties, Wise provided hands-on opportunities for students to engage directly with the jobsite. Electrical students carefully uninstalled and reassembled the building’s lighting systems, which were later transported back to their classrooms for continued use. Demolition students, guided by Wise’s field team and Select Demo Services, learned how to safely remove walls, millwork, doors, and frames. Beyond enhancing their technical skills, the experience offered valuable mentorship, as students connected with industry professionals who shared stories, insights, and career advice. It was an investment in the next generation of builders—and a meaningful way to extend the project’s legacy beyond its walls.
Building Beyond Together
The people behind the project made the difference. Wise’s field team, including Andrew Dell’Olio, Dave DeAgazio, and Joe Tumulty, brought their collective experience and steady leadership, earning trust from trade partners and our client alike. Whether it was navigating unknowns or guiding day-to-day work, the field consistently prioritized project needs and fostered a culture of collaboration and accountability. Their ability to maintain momentum in such a constrained space was no small feat—and it showed in the outcome.
From strategic planning to final finishes, the transformation of 51 Melcher Street is a case study in what it takes to revitalize historic infrastructure for modern scientific innovation. Wise Construction, alongside GI Partners, Leggat McCall Properties, Studio Troika, BALA, Hayes & O’Neill, and VHB, delivered a facility that meets the technical demands of today while preserving the architectural character of yesterday.
The result is more than a conversion—it’s a blueprint for what’s possible when you build with purpose and precision, a lesson in balancing history and modern demand with respect to all the challenges intrinsic to both.
Thank You to our Project Partners:
Owner: GI Partners
Owner’s Project Services: Leggat McCall Properties
Architect: Studio Troika
MEP Engineer: BALA
Structural Engineer: Hayes & O’Neil
Civil Engineer: VHB
U.S Green Building Council (LEED GOLD)
The Furniture Trust
Essex North Shore Agricultural and Technical School
Wise Project Team:
Andrew Cacciola
Stephanie Pappas
Weston Etienne
Victoria Aldersley
Andrew Dell’Olio
Dave DeAgazio
Joe Tumulty
