The Circle Story

Several important historical events are credited for the rise of Cleveland Circle, including the 1852 extension of the Charles River Branch Railroad; the 1865-1870 construction of the Chestnut Hill Reservoir; and the 1909 introduction of the electric streetcar, which triggered a housing boom for workers who could now commute to downtown Boston with ease.

When the Circle Cinema opened in 1940, the state-of-the-art building immediately became the focal point of Cleveland Circle. “No expense has been spared to provide the best in equipment, decorations, and convenience for patrons,” reported the Boston Globe at the time. In fact, the Circle Cinema was considered the feather in owner Sumner Redstone’s cap, rivaling the Charles Theatre as the place to see a movie in Boston and serving as a popular hub for years.

When the theater closed in 2008, an agreement was signed with its then-owner National Amusements to redevelop the property. Re-named “The Circle,” the new development includes a hotel and a residential building. Boston Development Group is a co-developer of The Circle with project developer and managing partner National Development.

EPOCH Senior Living, which has partnered with National Development to build more than 10 award-winning senior living communities, joined as a partner and operator for Waterstone at the Circle, the first senior living community in Chestnut Hill. Colwen Hotels, a leading hotel firm, joined the ownership group as operator of the AC Hotel by Marriott at the Circle.