The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum has purchased a 62-unit apartment building right next door in a $22.8 million deal.

The 62-unit apartment building is located behind the museum’s new wing on two properties at 14 Palace Road and 11 Tetlow St. 

The two properties were sold to 1903 Realty Holdings for $22.8 million.

The purchase is part of the museum’s long-term plans for growth and to protect the surrounding area from future development. 

Spokesperson Donna Hardwick told the Boston Business Journal that the museum plans to keep the property as housing and has hired a property management firm to manage the property. 

“We believe this was the best decision for the neighborhood as it will have zero impact on the community, our neighbors and visitors to our historic museum,” Hardwick said.