The Sisters of Mercy Motherhouse (AKA St. Joseph's Academy) was a previously vacant convent that was converted to 88 units of housing; 66 affordable and 22 market-rate. The building was upgraded for energy efficiency and several neglected maintenance items were addressed. Interior architectural detailing in the sanctuary, hallways and various other locations was preserved and restored. The rehabilitation was certified by the National Park Service in 2019. Photo by Christine Beard, Essex Preservation