CREW CT 2025 Blue Ribbon Brochure

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April 23, 2025 The Bushnell, Hartford

Thank you to our 2025 Event Sponsors

PLATINUM SPONSOR

GOLD SPONSORS

SILVER SPONSORS

About CREW CT and CREW Network

Commercial Real Estate Women (CREW) is the industry’s premier business networking organization. Membership offers unparalleled business connections, leadership development opportunities, and access to CREW members in your market and more than 14,000 professionals across the globe. CREW CT was founded in 1987 to connect commercial real estate women in Connecticut for business opportunities. Today, with more than 85 members, our mission is to advance all women in commercial real estate through business networking, leadership development, career outreach, and industry research. CREW CT aligns with CREW Network’s commitment to strengthening and expanding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) throughout our global organization.

Find our CREW!

www.connecticut.crewnetwork.org

Welcome to the 30th Annual Blue Ribbon Awards Gala Thank you so much for attending our 30th Annual Blue Ribbon Awards Gala ! This evening marks a significant milestone, as we celebrate not only the accomplishments of the past year but also the enduring dedication and excellence within the real estate industry. For three decades, this event has brought together the brightest minds, the most innovative professionals, and the leaders who continue to shape the future of real estate. Tonight, we honor the hard work, creativity, and outstanding achievements of those who have made a lasting impact in our field. Your presence here is a testament to your commitment to advancing the industry, and for that, we extend our deepest gratitude. As we reflect on the successes of the past year, let us also look forward to the many opportunities and challenges that lie ahead. The real estate sector is continuously evolving, and it is only through collaboration, innovation, and a shared passion for excellence that we will continue to thrive. We would like to extend our sincerest thanks to our sponsors, members, partners and guests for supporting CREW CT’s signature program. All nominated projects are worthy of note and are included in this program. Thank you for being part of the 30th Annual Blue Ribbon Awards Gala . Here's to another remarkable year of progress, growth, and success in the real estate industry! Dear Friends,

2025 Blue Ribbon Committee Chairs

Jennifer Marks BL Companies

Janet Wheeler Turner & Townsend

The committee extends a special thank you to Lauren Lyngholm of Ford & Paulekas, LLP and Katie Redican of Marcus & Millichap who volunteered their time to develop this program book and BL Companies, who digitized this booklet for electronic distribution.

Master of Ceremonies

Samantha VanSchoick

Vice President of Strategic Partnerships CIL

As Vice President of Strategic Partnerships at CIL, a nonprofit real estate development organization, Sam seeks out opportunities to develop accessible housing. Known as a storyteller and a people-person, she believes that with the right partnerships, we can create a world where all people have access to quality housing that enhances independence in neighborhoods of their choice. Named the inaugural “Impact Business Developer of the Year” in 2024 by the Society for Marketing Professional Services, a national association, Sam loves to share her strategies for infusing creative energy into high-impact marketing and business development campaigns. Sam is a Past-President of the Society for Marketing Professional Services Connecticut Chapter, is a Leadership Greater Hartford Quest 2018 Graduate, was named a “40 Under 40 Outstanding Woman in Construction” by the Professional Women in Construction, and is firmly on team Oxford comma. Unfortunately for her, she’s also a Jets fan.

2025 Judges Panel

Gina Calabro, Hon. AIACT

Executive Director / CEO Connecticut Chapter of the American Institute of Architects

Gina Calabro, Hon. AIACT, NOMA currently holds the position of Executive Director/CEO at the Connecticut Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA CT) and Executive Director of the Architecture Resource Center. She also serves as an advisor to the Connecticut National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMAct) and as an advisory board member with the University of Hartford's Department of Architecture. In recognition of her outstanding contributions to the Chapter, Gina was honored with the prestigious designation of Honorable AIACT in March 2021. With a career spanning more than 25 years, she brings extensive expertise in executive planning, administration, communications, and marketing, gained through her diverse experiences in both the private and non-profit sectors.

2025 Judges Panel

David Wharmby

Director of the Center for Real Estate University of Connecticut

David Wharmby is the Director of the Center for Real Estate at the University of Connecticut and teaches undergraduate and graduate courses in real estate and finance. Prior to joining his alma mater, he was Managing Director at Barings and its predecessor, Cornerstone Real Estate Advisers, where he was Head of Global Real Estate Securities, and part of the Real Estate Executive Leadership team. Dave is an accomplished real estate investor with a track record of success in public equities (REITs), private equity, and global capital markets. He has a BS and MBA from the University of Connecticut and is a CFA Charterholder.

2025 Judges Panel

Courtney Hendricson

Director, Corporate & Foundation Relations Southern Connecticut State University

Ms. Hendricson has over 20 years of experience as a leader in corporate partnerships, economic development and public policy. She currently serves as the Director, Corporate & Foundation Relations at SCSU where she creates and strengthens relationships and secures external partnerships and funding for the strategic priorities of the University. Previously, Ms. Hendricson served as the Deputy Economic Development Director for the City of New Haven, Vice President of Partnerships for AdvanceCT, Vice President of Municipal Services for Connecticut Economic Resource Center, Assistant Town Manager in Enfield, CT and as Economic Development Director in Farmington, CT. Ms. Hendricson currently serves on the Board of the Connecticut Women’s Council. She is the past board president of the Connecticut Economic Development Association (CEDAS) and recipient of CEDAS’ Presidents Award in 2023. She is also past board president of the Commercial Real Estate Women (CREW) Connecticut chapter. Courtney has served as chair of MetroHartford Alliance’s Regional Economic Development Forum and co-chair of the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC) P3 Retail Program in Connecticut. She regularly presents at state and national conferences and is committed to the advancement of women in corporate relations and economic development.

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 101 College Street Anthem at Square 10 Connecticut Residence and Dining Hall East Hartford Logistics & Technology Park at Rentschler Field Farmington High School Friends Center for Children - CINE4 Flint Street Fuss & O’Neill Headquarters Linus Plimpton House North Branford High School Parker-Hannifin Plating Room Addition Perch & Hollow Residence Sacred Heart University, Pioneer Village Shoreline Grove Slate Upper School Springside Middletown The Abner Hotel The Archive Apartments Trinity Health of New England, Enfield Campus, Ambulatory Care Center Western New England University Career & Welcome Center Windham High School, Renovate-as-New Yale Peabody Museum 2025 Nominated Projects

101 College Street

New Haven, CT

In the heart of downtown New Haven, Connecticut, 101 College Street is an important component of the City’s Downtown Crossing economic development initiative, which has sought to leverage the removal of Route 34 and convert the right-of way into an economic engine generating future growth. The 101 College Street development is a state-of-the-art bioscience building, which is 10 stories, 525,000 SF, anchored by Yale University and occupied by Alexion Pharmaceuticals creating hundreds of new jobs in the region. The building also includes a 52,000 SF world-class incubator space to foster life sciences start-up companies in Connecticut, including the tenant Biolabs, lab-classroom space for the New Haven Public Schools, and public open green space. The building is located above a service road that provides access to Yale New Haven Hospital’s loading dock, 100 College Street, and the public parking garage. The removal of the old Route 34 corridor has improved the civic realm by creating vital pedestrian connections within the City’s urban grid and delivering a spacious and heavily planted public plaza above a new parking garage. The building features a variety of street-level amenities including a lobby, an internal mass timber promenade with a 440-seat conference center, and a café. The 20,000 SF public plaza is constructed on top the of the parking garage, creating an urban oasis of respite for the public and building tenants. The plaza is densely planted with large deciduous trees providing an urban canopy with a multitude of health benefits including shade and cooling in the summer months. The building is designed as LEED Silver certification equivalency and includes a high-performance building envelope, energy-efficient mechanical systems, and a large stormwater retention system under the parking podium. Project design began in late 2019, with Elkus Manfredi Architects as project designers and Fuss & O’Neill providing multidisciplinary suite of technical services including civil engineering, land survey, environmental remediation, traffic engineering, and landscape architecture. During the design phase, the COVID-19 pandemic forced the team to quickly adapt, causing teams to go remote, using virtual meetings to communicate and ultimately permit the project through virtual presentations and meetings. As the design progressed and transitioned into construction, maintaining traffic through the downtown site while the project team constructed the building below, around, and above the roads, proved to be a significant challenge. Crews continued to work, finding creative ways to maintain traffic through and around the site without disrupting either the construction progress or daily commutes. 101 College Street is a cornerstone of this busy New Haven neighborhood, which supports the City’s economic development initiative known as Downtown Crossing. By converting an exposed 4 lane highway into a walkable, bikeable cluster of low-speed urban boulevards Downtown New Haven is now linked to surrounding neighborhoods with work, entertainment, food, and residential and transit options. Over time, the district has emerged as a world class destination for life science research and development.

Owner — Winstanley Enterprises

Project Size — 525,000 square feet 10 Stories

Project Team — Fuss & O’Neill and Elkus Manfredi Architects

Rendering Credit — By Elkus Manfredi Architects

10 Blue Ribbon Awards 2025

Anthem at Square 10

New Haven, CT

Square 10 is a sustainably designed neighborhood, close to the Yale Medical Campus, Wooster Square, and Union Station New Haven. With approximately 200 luxury living rental spaces within 167,000 SF, the Anthem at Square 10 also offers 18,000 SF of mixed-used commercial space and 8,000 SF of amenity space. Anthem at Square 10 is the cornerstone of the New Haven Coliseum Master Plan. The site is approximately 4.5 acres in Downtown New Haven, which has been used as surface parking since 2007. Spinnaker Real Estate Partners brought together a collaborative effort with Beinfield Architecture and Fuss & O’Neill Engineers to foster a plan that would stitch the surrounding urban fabric to create a vibrant infill development. Three primary public spaces organize the site into smaller development parcels. In the East/West direction, the site is divided by an interior laneway, designed as a woonerf or shared street. Another important trajectory in the urban fabric is a Southeasterly one- connecting Downtown New Haven to the train station. This major connection is celebrated as it intersects the laneway with a series of plazas. The northern plaza is a more hardscaped, urban space with farmers' markets, outdoor seating, and programmed events. The southern plaza is more naturalistic in nature, with its softer landscape and water features connecting to a larger park network that connects through the city. Ground floor uses in this master plan are retail and commercial in nature, with residential and office/lab uses on the upper floors. Beinfield Architecture worked within the guidelines of a Development and Land Disposition Agreement for the master plan of this development. Through a year-long process, the team engaged with city staff, third-party reviewers, Alders, and community interest groups in the design of the master plan. A series of workshops was held to gather community input, both in-person and online.

Owner — Spinnaker Real Estate Partners Project Size — 4.5 acres, 167,000 SF, 200 luxury units, 18,000 SF mixed used space, 8,000 SF amenity space Project Team — Spinnaker Real Estate Partners, Fieber Group, Beinfield Architecture, Fuss & O’Neill, B2R Consulting Engineers, PES Structural Engineers, A. Pappajohn Company 11 Blue Ribbon Awards 2025

Connecticut Residence and Dining Hall

Storrs, CT

Connecticut Hall brings 652 new beds to the University of Connecticut’s campus, replacing outdated barrack-style residence halls and helping meet an ongoing need for upgraded student housing. The new building improves the competitiveness of UConn’s on-campus residential experience against off-campus developer housing with semi-suite units and plentiful amenities. The building houses students in the Honors program, student athletes, and the Nursing and Wellness Learning Communities in mostly two-bedroom, two-bath semi-suites as well as some one-bedroom and non-suites for RAs and other accommodations. Two L-shaped forms come together in a seven-story massing that creates two courtyard spaces and completes the South Quad. An efficient, unitized layout of bedrooms includes lounges and study rooms at the end and middle of each floor. A 500-seat dining hall wing connects to the base of the northern L shape, overlooking Mirror Lake. The glass-enclosed ground floor provides common study areas, gathering spaces, game room, bike storage, laundry, and on-site offices that offer student access to residential life staff. A large communal living room visually and physically connects to the outside with seating that spills out to the outdoor courtyard patio. A 500-seat dining hall offers a range of food stations and a variety of seating options to support opportunities for social interaction or more focused meals. The exterior materials contrast the existing brick buildings on South Quad with an inverted color scheme of light brick, metal, and porcelain panels. Teak sunshading adds warmth to the glazed façade of the dining hall. On the interior, polished concrete floors and stained wood walls and ceilings create a contemporary character with welcome and warmth. Newman, as architect of record with design-builder KBE Building Corporation, was awarded the project in September 2024 and carried the project to completion by July 2024, just 22 months later. In picking up the project at Enhanced Schematic Design from bridging architect Sasaki, Newman’s approach was to fill gaps with minimal changes to the bridging documents and carry the minimalist design intent through to highly developed details. This approach required fitting solutions into the existing drawings like a puzzle when information was missing or when conflicts were discovered between the architecture and systems. Efficient fixtures and systems, on-site stormwater management, native landscaping, heritage tree preservation, and connection to a new campus geothermal field earned the building a LEED Gold rating and met the Connecticut High Performance Building Standards. The building is PV ready to support UConn’s 2030 carbon neutrality goals.

Owner — University of Connecticut

Project Size — 246,000 square feet

Project Team — Newman Architects, KBE Building Corporation, Sasaki, van Zelm Heywood & Shadford, DiBlasi Associates, Langan, The Green Engineer, Ricca Design Studios, Jaffe Holden Acoustics, WSP

12 Blue Ribbon Awards 2025

East Hartford Logistics & Technology Park at Rentschler Field

East Hartford, CT

An active airport from 1939 to 1999, East Hartford’s Rentschler Field had been largely unused for 25 years. However, the historic 300-acre site has become a regional and local economic and industrial asset in the form of a new logistics and technology park, developed by National Development. The project resulted in two build-to-suit Class A distribution facilities totaling more than 2.5 million square feet for two prominent retailers. Located midway between New York City and Boston and less than a mile from both I-84 and I-91, the site is a prime location for a logistics, manufacturing, and job center. Locals say the development is transformational for East Hartford. The two large-scale distribution facilities enhance the region’s infrastructure and position Hartford as a key player in the logistics and distribution sector. The facilities are anticipated to generate jobs and tax revenue for the city. The project received strong support from state and local representatives, who recognized its economic potential. Though the site required extensive permitting due to its historic designation, proximity to wetlands, endangered species along the waterway, and interaction with groundwater, VHB was able to obtain all permits and complete design within 11 months thanks to local and regional support for the project and an aggressive approach to permitting. The minimal grade change across the former airport’s runways presented topographical challenges to accommodate such large buildings. With a focus on sustainability and minimizing the import of fill material, VHB implemented a green infrastructure stormwater design and sloped the slab of one of the buildings five feet from one end to the other. This approach kept the site elevation low while facilitating functional drainage and water quality treatment. Ultimately, these sustainable practices not only minimized the amount of fill imported to the site (thereby reducing dump truck traffic to and from the site); they also saved the developer millions of dollars. Both facilities were designed to accommodate future solar panel installation across the entire roof systems and include sustainable features such as energy-efficient lighting and EV charging stations. The development also includes sidewalks to accommodate pedestrian commuters. The East Hartford Logistics & Technology Park at Rentschler Field exemplifies the best in industrial development. Through creative problem-solving, strategic planning, and a commitment to quality, the project team delivered two high-quality facilities that will serve as catalysts for economic growth in Hartford for years to come.

Owner — National Development

Project Size — 2.5 million square feet

Project Team — VHB, ARCO National Construction, F.A. Hesketh & Associates, Inc., HRP Associates, Inc., GEI, Heritage Consultants, Apex Lighting Solutions, GMA Architects, omloop design 13 Blue Ribbon Awards 2025

Farmington High School

Farmington, CT

A cornerstone of the community, Farmington High School is a transformative, three story, 238,400 SF educational facility that seamlessly integrates innovative design, sustainability, and community engagement. Built on a bustling campus shared with the town hall and library, the school maximizes natural light and blends harmoniously with the scenic Farmington Valley, creating an inspiring environment for students. Innovative Design & Functionality: The school is structured into efficient, compact Learning Communities, with classrooms, science rooms, and breakout spaces fostering collaboration. Open areas, flexible furniture, and strong connections to the outdoors encourage creativity, while quiet zones support focused study. Specialized spaces, such as the Edge Studio for multimedia production, career technical education labs, and arts facilities, enhance student learning. Recognized by the State Education Commissioner, TSKP’s design sets a high standard for academic excellence, ensuring a supportive and dynamic space that prepares students for global citizenship. Community Impact: As the largest construction project in town history, Farmington High School is a hub for both education and public engagement. The cafeteria and main corridor serve as gathering spaces for after-hours events, reinforcing the school’s role as a community focal point. The project also provided real-world learning experiences, with students exploring careers in construction through the O&G Builds program which hosted guided site tours and interactive lectures with industry professionals. Additionally, local first responders utilized the old school building for SWAT, fire, and police training before demolition, further integrating the project into the community. Challenges & Collaboration: The project overcame multiple referendums, with strong community involvement ensuring its success. A design competition allowed residents to participate in shaping the school’s vision, fostering confidence in the final selection. Financially, while costs rose, a revised reimbursement rate lessened the burden on taxpayers, making the $145 million project feasible. The school’s completion marked the culmination of bipartisan collaboration at local and state levels. At the ribbon-cutting ceremony, U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal praised the town for demonstrating the power of community-driven efforts, calling the school “a modern-day miracle.” Sustainability & Future-Ready Features: Farmington High School is built for longevity, prioritizing energy efficiency with modern HVAC systems, durable finishes, and extensive natural daylighting. These features create a healthy, sustainable learning environment that supports student well-being. A Model for Educational Excellence: With its forward-thinking design, functional adaptability, and deep-rooted community impact, Farmington High School stands as a model for future educational facilities. It exemplifies innovation, collaboration, and sustainability—qualities that make it a distinguished contender for the CREW CT Blue Ribbon Best in Class: Education award.

Owner — Town of Farmington

Project Size — 238,400 square feet

Project Team — O&G Industries, TSKP Studio

14 Blue Ribbon Awards 2025

Friends Center for Children CINE4 Flint Street

New Haven, CT

The Friends Center for Children’s newest campus at Flint Street transforms an abandoned cinema into an innovative early childhood education center, addressing New Haven’s critical need for affordable, high-quality childcare. This adaptive reuse project is the first phase of a visionary master plan that integrates sustainability, community engagement, and mission-driven design. Master Plan and Design: Located in Quinnipiac Meadows, the campus is a multi-phase development centered around a secure green courtyard. Phase 1 converted the Cine 4 building into an administrative facility with classrooms for infants and toddlers while retaining one of the theater spaces as a community cinema. Phase 2 will add a new classroom building, complete parking, and enhance landscaping, with a future Phase 3 planned for further growth. Adaptive Reuse and Innovation: The project’s standout feature is its transformation of a dark, enclosed theater into a bright, child-focused learning space. Large windows, skylights, and biophilic design connect indoor and outdoor environments, fostering a nurturing atmosphere. The retained cinema serves as an educational tool, hosting family movie nights and community events, preserving local history while providing a cultural asset. Community Impact: The campus expands Friends Center’s capacity to serve 80 children upon full completion. The Teacher Housing Initiative, offering free housing for early childhood educators, strengthens the workforce by promoting stability and career growth. The inclusion of a community cinema further solidifies the campus as a neighborhood hub for engagement and learning. Challenges and Solutions Zoning and Approvals: The site’s zoning did not initially permit educational use, requiring extensive collaboration with city planners and community stakeholders to secure modifications. Structural and Design Adaptations: Architects introduced natural light, open layouts, and a central courtyard to transform the originally enclosed structure into a welcoming environment. Economic Constraints: Adaptive reuse minimized costs and embodied carbon, while phased construction ensured financial sustainability. Sustainability and Wellness Adaptive Reuse: Preserving the existing structure reduced construction waste and environmental impact. Energy Efficiency: Geothermal heating/cooling, high-performance insulation, and daylighting lower energy consumption. Healthy Materials: Non-toxic, low-VOC finishes enhance indoor air quality. Outdoor Connectivity: A central courtyard and play areas encourage outdoor learning and physical well-being. Financial Strategy: Funding was secured through grants, philanthropy, and strategic financial planning. The phased approach ensures responsible budget management, while the cinema and expanded administrative operations contribute to long-term sustainability. Conclusion: The Flint Street Family Campus exemplifies how adaptive reuse can revitalize underutilized spaces while addressing critical community needs. By repurposing the former Cine 4 theater, Friends Center has created a replicable model for sustainable early childhood education. This project not only expands learning opportunities but also strengthens the local workforce and enhances neighborhood engagement, setting a new standard for mission-driven design and development.

Owner — Friend Center for Children

Project Size — 9,500 square feet

Project Team — Patriquin Architects, MHAI, Controlled Air, Langan, OR&L

15 Blue Ribbon Awards 2025

Fuss & O’Neill Headquarters

Hartford, CT

Blending efficiency, sustainability, and flexibility in a modern, branded environment, Fuss & O’Neill’s new headquarters in Hartford, CT, exemplifies a transformative approach to workplace design. Relocating to Hartford from Manchester marked more than one milestone for the firm. With this move, Fuss & O’Neill strengthened their client service through improved accessibility for clients and partners, while contributing to the city's economic revitalization. It reinforced the firm’s regional presence, supported local businesses, and its highly visible downtown location also amplified their brand recognition and industry leadership, while unifying its workforce within a high-performance space. Befittingly, this past fall, Fuss & O’Neill celebrated their 100-year anniversary in this new, forward-looking home. Previously spread across a total of six floors over two separate buildings, this design successfully united the headquarters staff onto one floor, in a single, highly efficient, and collaborative space. The spatial efficiencies afforded by opening up the already favorable footprint of the Gold Building allowed a staggering reduction of leased space of 50% from their Manchester location. This optimization of square footage was strategic, with the goal of enhancing departmental connectivity. Navigating the evolving landscape of a hybrid workforce also required careful balancing of private and shared workspaces. Thoughtful space planning was employed (and rigorously tested) to develop a responsibly flexible environment with a wide variety of deliberately placed work settings, including private offices, dedicated and “hoteling” workstations, touch-down spaces, meeting rooms, telephone rooms, and private “Zoom Rooms.” Strategically placed infrastructure was built-in to seamlessly accommodate future expansion (such as the addition of more workstations) with minimal disruption. A focus on sustainability inspired several benefits beyond square footage reduction. The design approach also prioritized daylight and exterior views for all employees, whether seated in a workstation, an office, giving a presentation, or just having lunch. Additional sustainable and wellness-driven features include: Energy Efficiency: Upgraded lighting and electrical systems with wirelessly occupancy-controlled outlets and workstations. Material Reuse: Retention of ceilings and ceiling tiles to reduce waste. Biophilic Design: Integration of preserved moss, natural stone wall coverings, and wood ceiling elements for enhanced indoor environmental quality. Healthy Materials: CRI Green Label Plus-certified carpeting and Red List Free acoustic baffles To foster company culture and highlight brand identity, the headquarters incorporates custom-designed wall coverings and artwork showcasing the firm’s projects and achievements throughout the space. This branded environment, combined with the open sightlines and natural materials, creates an inspiring workspace, bolstering employee engagement. To ensure Fuss & O’Neill’s move would be complete in time for their centennial celebration, the project required meeting a tight timeline. Despite this need for an ambitious schedule, the project was delivered on time and under budget through a united team, who worked together to address challenges and realize the vision. The outcome for Fuss & O’Neill is a new standard in workplace design—one that prioritizes efficiency, employee well-being, and long-term adaptability all while reinforcing their commitment to Hartford.

Owner — Fuss & O’Neill

Project Size — 20,949 square feet (renovated area) Photography Credit — Red Skies Photography

Project Team — Tecton Architects, Fuss & O’Neill, InnoConn

16 Blue Ribbon Awards 2025

Linus Plimpton House

Hartford, CT

A contributing structure to the Asylum Hill National Register Historic District, the Linus B. Plimpton House is a high-style Romanesque-inspired home. The house was first rehabbed under a separate restoration in 1991 by Crosskey Architects, LLC and most recently provided support/transitional housing for individuals of lesser means. Over time the home aged and weathered. NINA Properties contracted Crosskey Architects to help reclaim the home's architectural beauty, returning it back to residential use. NINA Inc.’s initiative focuses on revitalizing Asylum Hill (Hartford, Connecticut). The Plimpton House is one of nearly thirty historic properties NINA Inc. has renovated. This project utilized the State Historic Homes Rehabilitation Tax Credit Program, ensuring long-term community growth while maintaining the neighborhood’s aesthetic. The circa-1884 home is named after Linus B. Plimpton, founder of the Plimpton Manufacturing Co., one of Hartford’s more successful late nineteenth-century businesses. One of the district’s oldest homes, its original construction dates to 1863 in the Italianate style. The home was originally part of Joseph Morgan’s farmstead, grandfather of banking tycoon J.P. Morgan. In 1879, Linus Plimpton hired Hartford architect John C. Mead to remodel the 1863 structure, including a substantial expansion. The rehab reclaimed the home's original details, including decorative wood floors, stained glass windows, six fireplaces, and elaborate millwork, while updating it with modern heating, air conditioning, and electrical systems. Each room is unique, but of particular note are the entry hallway, dining room, and billiards room, where historic wall and ceiling painting exist. The Owner consulted John Canning Co. to preserve these elements, restoring and repairing damaged painting throughout the home. Most rooms are dramatic, though the third-floor billiards room might be the most resounding. Here, 14-foot ceilings and walls are decoratively stenciled. A large fireplace, constructed of various brick profiles and coursing, adds depth to the brick massing. Above the fireplace's stone mantel is a leaded arch stained-glass window, flanked by masonry chimney flues. The room provides expansive views of the Hartford skyline. According to local lore, Mark Twain was a frequent visitor to play pool with Plimpton in this space. To improve the marketability of the massive residence, which surpasses 7,000 square feet of livable space, the Owner reserved some of the floor plan for two apartments while maintaining a reconfigured main residence. The apartment units are tucked in the back of the home: floor two has two bedrooms and one bath, and floor three has one bedroom and one bath. Each unit has a private entrance with no circulation to the main house, which includes four bedrooms. When designing the reconfiguration, limiting impacts on the home's historic circulation was a priority. The main residence, roughly 5,250 sq. ft., retains its original circulation on all floors. To achieve the Owners’ desired program, hallway corridors on floors two and three were altered beyond the historic staircase, though existing walls were integrated within the new floorplan.

Owner — NINA (Northside Institutions Neighborhood Alliance, Inc.)

Project Size — 7,000 square feet

Project Team — Crosskey Architects, LLC; NINA Properties, LLC; James K. Grant Associates; State Historic Preservation Office; City of Hartford Department of Development Services; Capital Region Development Authority; Local Initiatives Support Corporation (Hartford) 17 Blue Ribbon Awards 2025

North Branford High School North Branford, CT

The recently completed North Branford High School replaced the existing facility that was constructed in 1963. The school is located on an academic campus with the Intermediate School, and a shared Auditorium facility.All three buildings are all connected by elevated bridges. The existing High School was outdated, and oversized for the projected enrollment and the structure was deteriorating. Considering the challenges of renovation, the community voted to right-size the building and provide a new state-of-the-art facility. QA+M Architecture’s design approach utilized the existing building for swing space, and with a phased demolition approach, allowed the team to construct a new three-story academic tower in the first phase of construction, and the technology & athletics wing was constructed in phase two on the existing building’s footprint. The objective identified by the Board of Education and the North Branford community was to develop a flagship high school that established a new standard for the Town’s educational facilities. The infusion of technology throughout was an imperative in its design, and included a 9 panel display screen located in the cafeteria that allows the space to serve as a hub of student activities throughout the day. A similar display screen was incorporated into the media center to facilitate small group presentations. Technology systems are utilized throughout the day in a variety of ways to support and enhance instruction and learning including broadcasting from the school’s TV studio. The design integrated a commercial culinary arts lab, as well as construction & engineering labs, in alignment with the communities’ values of trade-based learning opportunities. The site constraints and the best location for the new school posed a significant challenge to minimizing disruption to education while maintaining safety and security at the Intermediate and High Schools during construction. Bounded by the existing High School to the West and North, wetlands to the East and restricted by the auditorium building to the south, the design required an optimized building footprint. The solution was a three-story academic structure, which minimized encroaching into the wetlands and provided adequate space to construct phase one while maintaining access to all educational programs. To address environmental concerns, a significant wetlands rehabilitation effort was implemented to remove invasive species and promote regional biodiversity on site. Multiple outdoor classroom spaces, a green roof off the environmental science lab overlooking the wetlands took advantage of these natural enhancements and offer active & passive teaching and learning opportunities for educators and students. The variation and options of seating and flexible furniture environments throughout the sophisticated learning spaces, offer many choices for students, fostering both independent and collaborative learning environments. The furniture was carefully considered and directly contributes to the agility of spaces that can easily evolve & transform for a variety of community needs and activities. The educational campus has the feel of a community college. Through close coordination between the construction team, school administration, and community partners, the project was completed on schedule and under budget returning over $1.2M to the Town at project completion.

Owner — Town of North Branford - Board of Education

Project Size — 107,000 square feet

Project Team — QA+M Architecture, Gilbane Building Company, RZ Design Associates, FHI Studio, Benesch, D’Agostino Associates, Interscape Commercial Environments

18 Blue Ribbon Awards 2025

Parker-Hannifin Plating Room Addition

North Haven, CT

Parker-Hannifin Corporation (Parker) is a global manufacturer serving industries such as Aerospace, Healthcare, Industrial Manufacturing, Power Generation, Oil & Gas, and Transportation. Petra Construction Corporation (Petra) was chosen as the Design-Builder for a 10,000-square-foot addition to Parker’s Composite Sealing System Division in North Haven, Connecticut. This expansion houses an advanced, automated metal plating facility requiring significant infrastructure improvements due to its high-hazard classification. Given the chemical hazards associated with metal plating, Petra selected Centek Engineering Inc. (Centek) as the Engineer of Record for their expertise in both process engineering and building design. A collaborative Design-Build approach ensured efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and quality. The team utilized Building Information Modeling (BIM) software for 3D visualization, quantity takeoff, coordination, and clash detection. One key benefit of BIM was a solar study that revealed excessive daylight on manufacturing lines, leading to the decision to install translucent fenestration panels that provided diffused natural light and better thermal resistance—enhancing both energy efficiency and working conditions. Parker’s stringent manufacturing requirements necessitated specialized materials and methods to prevent damage from the highly acidic and caustic chemicals used in plating. The project incorporated a redundant containment system to mitigate spills, including two-foot-thick concrete slabs with proprietary coatings and below-slab waterproofing to prevent contamination. Additionally, fire wall construction separated the new facility from the existing building to comply with high hazard occupancy standards. A major challenge was the site’s Environmental Land Use Restriction (ELUR), which prohibited excavation below the existing floor slab due to pre-existing soil contamination. This required innovative design solutions to relocate utilities like sanitary piping, potable water, fire protection, drainage, and electrical conduits, which are typically placed underground. The project team’s adaptability and problem-solving skills ensured success despite these constraints. The project was executed in two phases: Enabling and Building Addition. The first phase involved relocating Parker’s existing equipment that conflicted with the expansion footprint while maintaining manufacturing production. Careful planning and logistics ensured minimal disruption. The phased approach also allowed for early procurement of materials with long lead times, preventing delays in the second construction phase. Thanks to precise coordination and strategic planning, the project was completed ahead of schedule, providing Parker with a cutting-edge metal plating facility that enhances manufacturing capabilities while ensuring safety, efficiency, and compliance with regulatory requirements. "Having two wonderful companies in North Haven work together to help build an additional 10,000 square feet for Parker Hannifin benefits the town in multiple ways. First, it demonstrates that an existing business continues to thrive in our community. Second, Parker-Hannifin’s expansion is a perfect example of what I like to see in North Haven—businesses growing and investing in our town. I’m very proud of both Petra Construction Corporation and Parker-Hannifin for this collaboration. This expansion further proves that North Haven is a place where businesses can grow and succeed." – Michael J. Freda, First Selectman of North Haven

Owner — Parker-Hannifin Corporation

Project Size — 10,000 square feet

Project Team — Petra Construction Corporation, Vocon, Robert Day Architects, Centek Engineering Inc.

Rendering Credit — By Elkus Manfredi Architects

19 Blue Ribbon Awards 2025

Perch & Hollow Residence

North Haven, CT

The Perch & Hollow residence exemplifies harmony between architecture and nature. Nestled within a dense, wooded landscape, this contemporary home dissolves the boundaries between indoors and outdoors, creating a living experience deeply rooted in its surroundings. A defining feature is its cantilevered living space, extending outward like a natural extension of the terrain. Expansive floor-to-ceiling glazing wraps the upper level, offering uninterrupted views of the forest. The structure maintains a minimal footprint while maximizing engagement with the topography, emerging from the earth rather than imposing upon it. An innovative aspect is its near invisibility from the road. A landscaped roof blends seamlessly into the terrain, preserving privacy while ensuring minimal visual impact. The home reveals itself only to the neighboring residence at the lower end of the site. Form and Function: At the heart of the design is the interplay between the "Perch" and the "Hollow." The cantilevered upper level, the Perch, immerses occupants in breathtaking scenery, while the lower-level Hollow serves as a sanctuary for rest and rejuvenation. An enclosed outdoor courtyard reinforces the connection to nature, allowing natural light and fresh air to penetrate deep into the home. The upper-level Perch is a celebration of openness. Floor-to-ceiling glazing and motorized windows blur interior and exterior boundaries. This level houses primary living spaces—kitchen, dining, and lounge—taking full advantage of its elevated position. Hovering above the landscape, it fosters a deep connection with nature through changing seasons. The lower-level Hollow provides a retreat with bedrooms in a cocoon-like setting, ensuring tranquility. A sauna reinforces the wellness-oriented design, offering a therapeutic escape. Hidden utility and storage spaces, integrated into the concrete retaining wall, contribute to the architectural dialogue between solidity and lightness. Impact and Challenges: While a private residence, Perch & Hollow exemplifies site-sensitive contemporary design. It challenges conventional luxury homes by prioritizing subtlety over scale, fostering regional appreciation for sustainable, nature-integrated architecture. Site constraints shaped the design. The uneven topography required a thoughtful response, allowing the terrain to dictate the home’s form. Strategic placement of exterior utilities preserves visual serenity. Engineering the cantilevered structure demanded precision to maintain lightness and openness. Zoning and environmental considerations influenced design decisions, such as integrating a landscaped roof for insulation and biodiversity. Sustainability and Wellness: Sustainability and wellness are core to Perch & Hollow. The landscaped roof mitigates heat, improves insulation, and manages stormwater. Extensive glazing maximizes natural light and passive solar heating, while motorized windows enhance ventilation, reducing mechanical cooling needs. Non-toxic, high-performance materials and calming color palettes foster relaxation and mental clarity. The sauna enhances physical and mental rejuvenation, reinforcing the home’s commitment to holistic living. The lower-level Hollow’s stillness promotes restful sleep, creating a true sanctuary. Perch & Hollow is a study in balance, seamlessly integrating with its wooded surroundings. It redefines luxury by emphasizing harmony with nature, spatial mindfulness, and occupant well-being. The project sets a new standard for site sensitive residential architecture, demonstrating how design can enhance both environment and quality of life.

Owner — N/A

Project Size — 2,350 square feet

Project Team — Patriquin Architects, MHAI, CES, SLR, Babbidge Construction, Gorecki Design Associates, Christensen Landscaping, Opus, Technolutions

20 Blue Ribbon Awards 2025

Sacred Heart University, Pioneer Village

Fairfield, CT

Sacred Heart University (SHU), founded in 1963, was originally a commuter school that launched from the foundations of a Catholic high school, welcoming students who were both eager to learn and enthusiastic about experiencing personal growth. For many years, SHU’s buildings served as functional, somewhat unremarkable facilities – a testament to the university's humble beginnings. However, as the years passed, the campus gradually evolved, periodically ushering in new academic halls that would dot the school’s property. While SHU’s atmosphere continued to offer practicality to its look and feel, it lacked the vibrance that other traditional universities presented. As time passed, students lived nearby in off-campus apartments, which, due to physical space, contributed to limiting any meaningful connections from happening. Consequently, this would prompt SHU to make some important structural changes. With the announcement of a neighboring assisted living facility relocating, a rather generous expanse of land had suddenly gone up for sale. This unexpected opportunity sparked a transformative vision within SHU’s administration as the school saw an opportunity to reshape the essence of SHU’s campus life. From that moment, a commitment had been made to foster a richer student life, drawing students back to campus. In fact, research had even shown that when students form deeper connections with one another, and with faculty, their academic and personal lives would flourish, friendships would blossom, and mentorships would thrive. The new 15-acre site, "Pioneer Village," would go on to serve as the cornerstone for SHU’s revitalization. Over four phases, the school would see eight buildings spring to life, housing 900 students and a bustling dining facility. At the heart of the village stood a beautifully designed quadrangle, acting as a central hub that invited students to gather, study, and socialize. As each building was constructed to blend indoor and outdoor spaces, the transition encouraged greater interaction. Lounges would open onto sunlit patios, study rooms overlooked radiant gardens, and walkways wandered through inviting green spaces. The architecture spoke to the connections that were being forged, weaving a network of social engagement opportunities throughout. As the first residents of Pioneer Village moved in, a new energy enveloped the school. Voices echoed through the quadrangle, spontaneous gatherings of students studied, sharing meals, or simply enjoying each other's company. Faculty members joined together more freely, meeting with students for lunch or hosting informal discussions. Over time, SHU had transformed from a transient space into a thriving community, with students forging lifelong friendships and faculty nurturing future leaders. From the likes of a commuter school, SHU had evolved into a destination where education pulsed through every interaction.

Owner — Sacred Heart University Project Size — Eight Buildings, 15 Acres Project Team — S/L/A/M Collaborative, Turner Construction, Consigli Construction, OECIS, HF Lenz, CES, Milone & MacBroom, Vision Builders and Design, Code Red Consultants

21 Blue Ribbon Awards 2025

Shoreline Grove

Branford, CT

Shoreline Grove, designed for a partnership between the Branford Housing Authority and Beacon Communities, replaces an outdated and deteriorating affordable housing community with larger, modern, thoughtfully designed apartments that better suit senior and disabled residents’ needs with additional amenities, services, and parking onsite. The 67-unit new building achieved Passive House (Phius) Certification, meeting very high-performance building standards for a comfortable indoor environment with very low operational energy consumption. It is now the largest Passive House certified project in the State of Connecticut and the second largest in New England. Shoreline Grove expands access to affordable housing in a warm and welcoming community and creates a long-term sustainable asset for the neighborhood and town. Central ground floor amenities, programmed with the involvement of a resident council, include a community room with kitchen and computer room, fitness center, a wellness exam room, and a package concierge. Located on a rocky and wooded site, the building overlooks the central public park in Branford with a view of the harbor. Four stories nestle into the topography, shorter on the residential side, and with a footprint that minimizes the removal of existing trees. The house-like character references the grand historic Branford hotels of the 1920s and 30s. The one-bedroom units are 600-700 square feet, and the larger, two-bedroom units are designed to work for families or roommates. Large windows and open kitchens enhance the generous size and brightness of the units. Built-in casework and VCT wood-look tiles bring warmth and durability to the interiors. An efficient mechanical system with energy recovery units and photovoltaic panels combined with a continuous air barrier, air tightness at eaves and roof conditions, and triple-glazed vinyl insulated windows meet the requirements of Passive House certification. In meeting Phius requirements, the building excels in its energy efficiency with a Home Energy Rating Score (HERS) of 40, significantly below energy code in the State. In its final blower door test, a key piece of the testing phase for achieving PHIUS certification, the building came in at 0.054 cfm/sf, which is 10% below the threshold needed, equivalent to 0.476 ACH (air changes per hour). The process faced significant community challenges, including a sea change in Town leadership and significant hurdles to overcome in order to achieve Planning & Zoning and other approvals. The success of the project is the result of a long term effort among the client, project team, and constituents that expands the availability of affordable housing in Branford.

Owner — Beacon Communities / Branford Housing Authority Project Size — 72,000 square feet, 67 units Project Team — Newman Architects, Enterprise Builders, Innovative Engineering Services, TPA Design Group, Michael Horton Associates, New Ecology

22 Blue Ribbon Awards 2025