CREW CT | Blue Ribbon Awards Program Book

28 th Annual Blue Ribbon Awards Showcase

May 3, 2023

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THANKS TO OUR 2023 EVENT SPONSORS

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Dear Friends, Thank you so much for attending our 28th annual real estate award program. We are fortunate to have so many developers, private businesses, nonprofits, and governmental bodies interested in developing state-of-the art facilities, bringing to life obsolete buildings, creating appealing and functional employee work spaces and spaces that entertain and enliven. We continue to find encouragement and hope in our professional accomplishments. Our industry has a long history of resiliency, and we will continue to dream, plan and passionately pursue the success that is achieved in these projects. 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. Please enjoy this celebration of Connecticut’s best real estate projects from 2022!

2023 Blue Ribbon Committee Chairs

Jennifer Marks BL Companies

Kim Harvey Newmark

Janet Wheeler Kaestle Boos Associates

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Tonight’s Master of Ceremonies

Melissa Lefort – Melissa Lefort Consulting Melissa’s expansive real estate industry insights, transformational techniques, and proven process improvements are built on nearly 20 years in the multi-family property management industry. Through her company, Melissa Lefort Consulting, she builds impactful customized solutions that help individuals and teams across the country in the property management industry harness their “1%” – the remarkable and rare qualities that make them unforgettable. Melissa is also a respected speaker and has delivered addresses and presentations at many events for various national organizations. Gina Calabro, Hon. AIACT, NOMA is the Executive Director/CEO of the Connecticut Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA CT). She is also an advisor to the Connecticut National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMAct), and an advisory board member of the University of Hartford’s Department of Architecture, the CTECH Construction Trade Programs, and the Platt Technical High School Architecture Program. Ms. Calabro’s resume includes over 25 years of executive planning, administration, communications, and marketing experience in both the private and non-profit sector. Julia Su. Jack – Department of Public Works, City of Hartford Julia Su. Jack is the self-proclaimed “daughter of diversity here to change the world one woman at a time by encouraging everyone she meets to build unshakeable character in order to do extraordinary things at any age.” She holds a Bachelor of Architecture degree from Howard University and a Masters in Construction Management degree from Central Connecticut State University; she is a National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) certified Licensed Architect and is a PMI certified Project Management Professional (PMP) and a CSI certified Construction Document Technologist (CDT). Rose Ponte - Economic Development Director, Town of Farmington Since 2013, Rose has been the Economic Development Director for the Town of Farmington, engaging residents and business leaders and strengthening connections among the Town’s stakeholders. Prior to joining the Town of Farmington, she served as the Economic Development Director for the City of Torrington, where she played a key role in revitalizing Torrington’s Downtown Center. Rose is a Farmington Rotarian and was named a Paul Harris Fellow by the Rotary Foundation. Gina Calabro – Executive Director/CEO, American Institute of Architects

2023 Judges Panel

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2023 Blue Ribbon Committee Jennifer Marks BL Companies Blue Ribbon Committee Chair Kim Harvey Newmark Blue Ribbon Committee Chair Janet Wheeler Kaestle Boos Associates Blue Ribbon Committee Chair

The committee extends a special thank you to Judy Ascano Schuler of East-West Engineering, PLLC, Kate Beal of Red Thread, Lauren Lyngholm of Ford & Paulekas, LLP , and Kathryn Redican of Marcus & Millichap who volunteered their time to develop this program book, as well as Jennifer Marks of BL Companies, whose company digitized this booklet for electronic distribution.

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2023 NOMINATED PROJECTS 99 Pratt Street ................................................................................................. 8 Beiersdof North American Headquarters ................................................................... 9 Bristol Arts & Innovation Magnet School .................................................................. 10 Brookfield Village ............................................................................................. 11 Buckley Elementary School ................................................................................. 12 Colt U-Shape Apartments ................................................................................... 13 Connecticut Children’s Pediatric Specialty Care Center ................................................. 14 Dixwell “Q House” Community Center ..................................................................... 15 Earthlight Technologies Headquarters ..................................................................... 16 Five Story Hospital Addition Hartford Hospital ............................................................ 17 Hartford HealthCare 100 Pearl Office Suite ............................................................... 18 Hotel Marcel .................................................................................................. 19 Martire Family Arena ......................................................................................... 20 Red Thread “Workplace Innovation Hub” ................................................................. 21 Southern Connecticut State University New Health & Human Services Building ..................... 22 The Hazel Stamford .......................................................................................... 23 Viking Global Investors ...................................................................................... 24 Village at Park River – Phase III ............................................................................ 25 Wesleyan Neighborhood PreSchool ....................................................................... 26 Yale New Haven Hospital Emergency Department Annex .............................................. 27

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99 Pratt Street Hartford, CT

The adaptive reuse of the Steiger Building has placed a pristine example of early twentieth-century architecture within the Pratt Street National Register Historic District back into service. Built in 1928, the rehabilitation of the six-story building will ensure the long- term growth and preservation of one of Hartford’s oldest communities, while helping maintain the aesthetic and context of a neighborhood that will serve as a catalyst of economic vibrancy. In late 2022, tenant occupancy began. There are ninety – seven apartment units on floors two through six including a mix of micro studios, studios, and one – bedroom apartments. The first – floor storefront retail spaces are an eclectic mixture of seven unique spaces which will include both retail and restaurants. Pratt Street has a long and celebrated history, which unfortunately had lost its sense of place for some time and worsened because of COVID – 19. Of late, events have brought people back to Pratt Street, sparking engagement from the community. Because of this, Pratt Street has returned to a walkable streetscape, acting as a gateway and spine between Main Street and the central business district. Similar design initiatives were brought to the Steiger Building’s interior, which include ample amenity and co mmunity space on each floor. Architecturally, the design was cognizant of existing high-end features that remained within the building. All upgrades adhered to the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation, as the project had oversight from both the State Historic Preservation Office and National Park Service. The Steiger Buildings’ fifth and sixth floors were historically executive offices and suites. As such, these corridors were historically constructed of plaster ceilings and coved moldings, yet modern replacement acoustical ceiling tiles had covered the true conditions. Unfortunately, the plaster molding had delaminated well beyond the repair. A sensitive replication was created from a material called glass fiber-reinforced gypsum (GFRG). The result was a pristine reproduction that pays homage to the original high style of the building. Additionally, as part of the rehabilitation, the building’s mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems were entirely upgraded with new energy efficient equipment.

Owner: SGS 99 Pratt, LLC

Project Size: 6-story building, 97 residential units & 9,600 SF of commercial space

Project Team: Crosskey Architects, LLC, SGS 99 Pratt, LLC, BSC Group, Redfern Engineering, LLC, Acorn Consulting Engineers, InnoConn Construction Management, Olga Sapunkova, CT State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO), National Park Service (NPS)

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Beiersdorf North America Headquarters 301 Tresser Boulevard, Stamford, CT

Collaborative area/”town hall” showing movable

Cantina

Green wall/white board panels

The multinational skincare products company, Beiersdorf, recruited G3 to help select a building for their new U.S. Headquarters and to design the space. With the pandemic at its peak, Beiersdorf faced many uncertainties: what would a post-Covid work environment look like for most companies, and how would they tailor that model to meet the specific needs of their own employees? Through extensive research, space studies, and quick adaption to a completely virtual meeting process, G3 was able to guide Beiersdorf in creating a comprehensive workplace stra tegy and designing a space where this “office of the future” could thrive. Focusing on collaborative meetings, individual offices were eliminated and workstation amounts drastically decreased. Based on Beiersdorf’s team meeting processes, G3 developed mult iple collaborative zones and meeting room types for varying group sizes and privacy requirements. Open meeting areas include collaborative clusters outfitted with lounge seating, touch down stations with counter height seating, and project areas with bar height seating. Closed meeting rooms include a boardroom, large conference rooms, focus rooms for smaller groups, enclosed collaborative lounges, and phone rooms. With flexibility in mind, the boardroom has powered mobile tables that can be configured into one expansive conference table or separated for training sessions. A dividing wall that disappears into the ceiling can separate the space into two meeting rooms. Lightweight furniture and space dividers on casters — including live greenery panels and marker boards — give users the ability to reconfigure areas. Each occupant has access to power through powered furniture or mobile charging stations. Pursuing LEED and Fitwel certifications, Beiersdorf committed to the provision of an office space that concentrated on wellness. Air quality was exponentially enhanced, and selected materials are sustainable. All enclosed spaces were kept near the core to allow an inflow of natural light, and lighting control strategies reinforce employee comfort and save energy. Integrating biophilic design with planters in conference rooms and atop locker banks, mobile greenery panels, and vines trailing from a wood slat ceiling above the Cantina add vibrancy. A wellness room and a mother’s room provide privacy and moments of respite .

Owner : Beiersdorf, Inc.

Project Size : 23,000 SF

Project Team : G3 Architecture Interior s Planning, JLL PDS, Pavarini, Southport Engineers, MGE UTC, Goldstick Lighting Design, Acoustic Distinctions

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Bristol Arts & Innovation Magnet School Bristol, CT

Bristol Arts & Innovation Magnet School, originally Bristol High School was built in 1921, designed by architect George Wilson Potter who was well known for his schools and libraries throughout New York, Pennsylvania and Connecticut. The original school was the culmination of many years of study on architecture of schools, and represented the prosperity and growth of Bristol as an industrial city. In 2012, the building was vacated due to the need for repairs and school redistricting efforts around the city. However, within only a few years, programmatic needs and a strong public sentiment for restoration brought about the chance to breathe new life into this historic building and convert it to a grades 6-12 arts magnet school. During design, extensive forensic and hazmat investigations were completed to provide the design team with as much detail as possible, to include in their plans and specifications within the existing 96,000 SF structure. Forensic investigations helped to undercover existing conditions early on in construction that required mortar injection and hand patching of existing concrete beams. Performing these investigations made it possible to identify the cost impact and avoid a major financial pitfall. Environmentally friendly products were utilized on the project such as recyclable flooring materials throughout the academic wing, as well as features like water bottle filling stations. This beautifully restored building includes contemporary art studios, two sound studios, a restored historic 840 seat theater and a black box theater, both with entirely new lighting, rigging, audio, and acoustical systems. A formal lobby with a ticket booth and concessions area was added as a community resource for professional shows. The “Rockwell Theater” is designed to train students for performance and tech production at a professional level and provide the city with one of the larger performing arts seating venues in Connecticut.

Upon completion, the project came in $1.7M under budget and over the course of construction, nearly $1M was been returned to the City from the CM contingency. The revitalized school is the Crown Jewel of the City of Bristol.

Owner : City of Bristol

Project Size : 113,000 SF

Project Team: Downes Construction Company, QA+M Architecture, D’Amato Construction, Loureiro Engineering Associates, Inc. , VanZelm Engineers

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Brookfield Village 802 Federal Road, Brookfield, CT

Brookfield Village Apartments provides a modern style and a boutique living experience. At the brand-new Brookfield Village, located at 802 Federal Road Brookfield, CT you can have it all! The Community is comprised of 88 Residential Units along with 13 Retail/Commercial Spaces nestled right in the center of the Four Corners of Brookfield. The Four Corners in Brookfield is a well-known community landmark and so named primarily because it is the historic junction of State Routes 7 and 25. Brookfield Village Apartments/Retail has become a center of activity in Brookfield and a destination. It is a “downtown” for Brookfield that is well defined visually and aesthetically, providing a positive experience for residents and visitors, with a distinctive identity that is well known throughout Brookfield and the region. Brookfield Village offers, pet-friendly studios, one-, and two-bedroom homes both Conventional Market Rate along with Affordable Income Restricted Units. Having a blended community offers housing to all household sizes and income limits, which guarantee an incredible living experience, while the high-end community amenities ensure the opportunity to recharge is never far away. Brookfield Village Apartments is your launchpad to experience more and expand your connection to the city. Occupancy was first established in February 2022, and Brookfield Village has shown an 83% renewal rate which has demonstrated high retention among the first wave of lease renewals. The impact in the community has been extremely positive and drawn an immense number of prospects waiting to step foot into the Community. Brookfield Village has received approval to add additional buildings (Spring 2024) on the back lot will only help this community expand and grow to a limitless potential. These buildings will mirror the previous construction with both Residential and Retail/Commercial units, as well as added features such as a swimming pool and Clubhouse.

Overall, Brookfield Village has been a shining star for the Town of Brookfield and with the continuation of the new construction it will continue to shine for decades to come!

Owner : PDM Realty, LLC

Project Size : 88 Residential Units/ 13 Commercial Units

Project Team : The Simon Konover Company, PDM Realty, LLC

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Buckley Elementary School Hartford, CT

Schools can contribute to a sustainable world through their operation, curriculum, and engagement with a broader community, setting the tone for environmental stewardship. With a projected Energy Use Intensity (EUI) of 18.1, Buckley Elementary School is Connecticut’s fir st Net Zero Energy public school. This project is far-reaching for the environment, Manchester’s bottom line, as a learning experience for present and future students, and is an example for those who choose to emulate it. The project goals included renovating the existing 55,000 SF school and adding 9,000 SF for special education, art, music, project and STEM rooms. Another goal was achieving Net Zero for the building, making it as energy efficient as possible with renewable energy satisfying the remaining demand. The end result is a building that uses no fossil fuels. New program spaces, inserted into the existing building, spared the majority of the 70-year-old structure from demolition and extended the life cycle of the existing building. Buckley boasts an abundance of sustainable features. Prominently featured at the main entrance is a Smart Flower that tracks the sun and teaches students the basics of solar energy. The solar flower produces 4000 – 6000 kwh yearly, enough to power 40/60% of an average household. There are other Net Zero features, many of which aren’t visible, including:  60 geothermal wells beneath a field on school property that serve as a thermal battery for heat storage  North-south facing windows and glazing that balance energy consumption with daylighting  Outside air supply for ventilation, ensuring spaces receive fresh air based on occupancy and CO2 levels  Rooftop photovoltaics to offset electric usage  Efficient pumps with variable-speed motors and two-stage compressors  Bipolar ionization technology  Enhanced roof and wall insulation systems  A tight envelope, pressure tested and thermal scanned to validate tightness of construction  An all electric commercial kitchen This school leverages sustainability principles wherever possible. The main entry’s “energy dashboard” displays real-time energy savings, showing K-4 students, teachers, and visitors just how “green” their rejuvenated school is.

Owner : Town of Manchester

Project Size : 64,000 SF

Project Team: O&G Industries, TSKP Studio, CMTA, Inc, Bemis Associates, LLC, Macchi Engineers, SLR Consulting

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Colt U-Shape Apartments 15 Van Dyke Avenue, Hartford, CT 06106

Colt’s U -Shape Building was built in 1942 by Colt ’s Firearm Manufacturing Co. as their executive office building. Vacant since the 1960’s, Colt Gateway and the Capital Region Education Council (CREC) renovated the entire building for CREC’s Two River Science High School in 2013 but the school relocated in 2018 leaving the entire building once again vacant. Colt Gateway was tasked with adaptively reusing this building for a second time. The Wellness Credit Union rented the first floor but, even before the shift to remote work, it seemed unlikely that we could lease the remaining 28,000 square feet as commercial office space. Colt Gateway already had some success with (177) existing residential units, so we asked Maier Design to provide a test fit for (28) new apartments in the U-Shape Building. To our surprise, the unique shape of the building created (12) coveted corner units with bands of glass surrounding each apartment. We discovered our 1941 office building apartments could be every bit as interesting as our historic mill conversions. In fact, the U-Shape apartments are often favored by our prospective tenants. Colt Gateway has always worked closely with our Neighborhood Revitalization Group, the Coalition to Strengthen the Sheldon/Charter Oak Neighborhood (CSS/CON). CSS/CON’s strategic plan supports a diverse housing stock in our neighborhood with a combination of affordable, mid, to higher end products, so this development is consistent with their goals. The supply chain delays, and overall cost escalations created some real challenges. Thankfully, our contractor, NDC, was efficient, releasing key materials before they became unobtainable. Unexpectedly, the most impactful delay was the delivery of residential appliances. Our team had to be very creative to keep up with the residential move ins.

When we converted the U-Shape into apartments we replaced the HVAC units with higher efficiency units while providing a constant flow of heated/cooled fresh air into the apartments.

As a second adaptive reuse, this project did not meet historic tax credit requirements, but a loan from the Capital Region Development Authority (CRDA) helped to make the numbers work while leveraging a substantial equity investment by Colt Gateway.

Owner : Colt Gateway

Project Size : 44,250 SF

Project Team: Colt Gateway, Maier Design Group, LLC, NDC Commercial Construction

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Connecticut Children’s Pediatric Specialty Care Center Westport, Connecticut

Design of this unique and innovative space is anything but your typical healthcare facility. To increase patient and staff comfort and confidence, every corner of the space is designed to engage and excite children in a storybook that assists with wayfinding. Weaving in biophilic elements that elevate the healing experience for those who encounter it. When patients and family enter Connecticut Children’s Pediatric Specialty Care Center, they find themselves inside a charming meadow — not a boring old lobby. Then, they encounter a centralized corridor of blue skies with a light cloud cover of handcrafted millwork and a nursing station shaped like the sun. Lighting within this space is versatile and customizable. In one wing, an animated chase scene engages children as a dazzling display follows them down to an imaging suite. In another, children press a button to trigger a frenzy of rainbow lights. Strengthened only by the caregivers who call this space home, staff leverage the form and function of this facility into the lifesaving care they provide. It is a multifunctional space with all-inclusive outpatient offerings; bringing multiple specialties under one roof to create a flagship facility for the network’s first Fairfield County location. One major obstacle overcome in this project was Westport’s moratorium on constructing ‘big boxes.’ This project reused an office building allowing us to address needs spatial needs without challenging the jurisdiction’s policy. The decision to reuse also allowed the team to allocate more budget to focus on engaging interiors and technological integrations. The space itself is a wellness feature. Each element transports patients to a more approachable and engaging healthcare experience. Bubble walls in the lobby provide a calming effect with a soft, comforting sound that can be meditative. Earthy, natural themes throughout incorporate calming colors and comforting graphics that soothe and intrigue patients.Three construction bidders came within 5%; very tight bid with change orders under 3% signifies the project was efficiently and effectively built to financial aspects. This space has already impacted the community by accentuating the pediatric experience for neighboring residents. Also positioning the State as a destination for topnotch healthcare.

Owner : Connecticut Children’s

Project Size : 13,000 SF

Project Team: Phase Zero Design, C.E. Floyd, Illuminate New England

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Dixwell “Q House” Community Center Dixwell Avenue, New Haven

The beloved Dixwell Community Center, established in 1924, closed due to lack of funding. A feasibility study determined demolition and construction of a larger facility on the same site would be more cost-effective than renovation. The design team of Kenneth Boroson Architects and Zared Enterprises collaborated with Alders, an Advisory Board, Steering Committee, and Building Committee, comprised of community members of all ages and backgrounds.

The new building offers a diverse mix of use, with four neighborhood “Partners” – Teen / Community Center, Library branch, Senior Center branch, and Health Center (interior fitout to be completed by others).

The Community Center includes a fitness center, gymnasium, teen lounge, recording studio, dance studio, art room, game room, commercial/teaching kitchen, and community support offices. The diverse programming includes children’s summer/afterschool programs and leadership training. Classes for children and adul ts range from fitness, yoga, and dance to painting, cooking, and meditation. The library features a bright, two story interior with flexible spaces and furnishings, several reading/study areas, and a “maker space” for STEAM activities and crafts. Technology includes new computer stations, smart boards and an integrated sound system for community presentations and performances. The site includes a synthetic running track and a spacious courtyard which hosts weekly farmers’ markets and events. Construction continued throughout the pandemic and had supply chain challenges. Unforeseen urban fill discovered during the early stages of construction required a geo-pier system be used for a portion of the foundation design. The building’s dedication was held in 2021 , completion of the library and community center occurred in 2022.

Owner : City of New Haven

Project Size : 53,000 SF

Project Team : Kenneth Boroson Architects, Zared Enterprises, Diversified Technology Consultants (DTC), Musco Engineering Associates, McFarland Kistler & Associates, A. Secondino & Son, City of New Haven, New Haven Board of Alders, Q House Advisory Board, Steering Committee, Building Committee, New Haven Free Public Library

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Earthlight Technologies Headquarters 128 West Road, Ellington CT

Earthlight is a great example of a family owned business that is committed to preserving the environment and helping to make Connecticut a leader in environmentally responsible design and stewardship.

The new high-performance building has been designed to produce Net-Zero Energy. The building is powered by the large-scale solar panel array mounted on the roof of the warehouse. The entire building, including the large warehouse, is heated and cooled by a geothermal system with fifteen geothermal wells, featuring water to-water heat pumps beneath the warehouse floor and water-to-air heat pumps to heat the offices. Additional features include Level 1 and 2 EV charging stations, battery storage, plus a Living Wall. The project experienced many challenges during construction with the unpredictable availability and lead times for materials in the post-pandemic economy. For example, a shortage in steel delayed the installation of the warehouse building several months. Throughout the construction process, even with the Covid-19 related delays, the owners were committed to sourcing and installing the most energy conscious materials with locally based sub-contractors. Earthlight Technologies is a family owned and operated solar and energy solutions manufacturer located in Ellington, CT. The company started serving the community by selling energy efficient products, quickly expanded into providing commercial energy efficiency upgrades for local businesses and became a preferred contractor with the Connecticut Light and Power Small Business Energy Advantage program. In 2012 their solar division was created for residential customers and by 2015 Earthlight developed the Commercial Solar Division. In 2019 and 2020 Earthlight began Storage Battery and Electrical Vehicle Charging Stations. All of which, has been incorporated into the project. The headquarters building will also be used for educational purposes. Anyone is welcome to come by and learn more about solar, storage, and energy efficiency. Since the grand opening, Earthlight hosted CTGBC and CT Sustainable Business Council in addition to several community open house events.

Owner : Earthlight Technologies LLC

Project Size : 22,000 SF

Project Team : Cheryl Newton Architects LLC, Great Country Timber Frames, New England Metal Buildings, Interscape Commercial Environments

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Five Story Hospital Addition Hartford Hospital, Hartford, CT

MBH ARCHITECTURE supported Hartford HealthCare in this 5-Story expansion dedicated to bringing advanced critical medical care by needling this building into this existing and challenging courtyard landscape. Aspects of creative, highly efficient, modern healthcare design embodied efficiency in clinical/ patient care, visibility, accessibility, technology and sustainability. Another interesting aspect of this addition was having to respect the existing 1960’s buil d floor-floor height of the abutting 13-Story building. However, this such obstacle was not enough to deter the design of locating (3) new and innovative MRI’s on the First Floor , which in turn presented yet another major achievement since these were located immediately above this Addition’s supporti ng mechanical, electrical and plumbing spaces. The Second and Third Floors effectively increased the Hospital’s Pre/ Post Anesthesia Care bays and single -room Critical Care Unit count that have been generously designed with ample visitor space, and successfully achieved by using contemporary yet durable finishes. The upper most story allowed the most headroom, which facilitated locating Operating Rooms and Hybrid Operating Rooms designed with utmost advanced technologies. Topping this project is its roof, designed as the building’s fifth façade by introducing vegetated sedum trays, with the design intent of enhancing patient views from higher and neighboring hospital wings.

Owner : Hartford HealthCare

Project Size : 50,000 SF

Project Team : MBH Architecture, LLC, SLR Consulting, M/E Engineering, Szewczak, Kity & Fluhr Structural Engineers, Concord Healthcare, FIP Construction, Inc, Colliers International

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Hartford HealthCare 100 Pearl Office Suite 100 Pearl Street, Hartford, Connecticut

MBH Architecture supported Hartford HealthCare to re-imagine the way executive leadership is viewed within their network, and the community. This office of the future is an environment that fosters collaboration, creativity, and connection throughout the open and transformative space. The move reverses the traditional paradigm of the exclusive executive suite to bring leadership directly into the community. The most visible expression of this transformation will be a new glass pavilion, that will serve not only as an entry, but with animated digital displays and integrated lighting, will activate a revitalized new ‘community corner’ plaza at the intersection of Pearl and Trumbull Streets. While embracing the future, this move also respects the past, drawing on the heritage of Pearl Street as an integral ‘working’ part of Hartford’s growth as a city, and is seen as a ‘roll -up your- sleeves’ public -oriented place where leadership is an activity, not a title. Aesthetically, the design is an expression of the ‘cultural DNA’ of Hartford HealthCare – embodying its principles in a dynamic, connected, collaborative, visible and accessible approach. The light-filled multi story space is defined with fluid, curving planes in a simple yet elegant white palette balanced with warm wood accents and highlighted by elements of bold, branded color. Ultimately, this and the other spaces at 100 Pearl Street create a dynamic new expression of institutional identity, engaging Hartford HealthCare into the downtown Hartford community becoming an integral, active part of the urban fabric, accessible to the public, communicating its values, embracing technology and celebrating its civic responsibility.

Owner : Hartford HealthCare

Project Size : 42,000 SF

Project Team : MBH Architecture, LLC, BL Companies

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Hotel Marcel New Haven, CT

Marcel Breuer’s 1968 Armstrong Rubber Company Building marks the entry to New Haven, framing the skyline with its distinctive two-story void. Now, its stacked volumes have been repurposed by Becker + Becker Associates into a 165-room hotel and conference center, while pioneering preservation strategies that squarely address our urgent climate crisis. Hotel Marcel sets a new standard in the hospitality industry and preservation world, with an all-electric, fossil-fuel-free, Passive House compliant, LEED Platinum, net-zero energy transformation. This hotel looks to the future and celebrates its past. As floors were converted, new partitions comply with the original 5-foot grid and the uninterrupted 185-foot expanse at the ground floor that connects the reception, lounge, and restaurant celebrates the structural ingenuity of this building. The formerly windowless 9th mechanical floor is transformed to entertain events and conferences presenting guests with the 16-foot-high structural trusses which Breuer had only expressed in the north and south precast facades. Other historic features that were repaired and preserved include the original board-formed concrete stairwells and terrazzo stair treads, the granite entry pavers and tile at the reception area and elevator lobbies, and the full-height wood paneling in the former executive offices. In its reincarnation, the building captures solar energy and distributes more daylight to the center of the floorplates. Below hundreds photovoltaic panels on the roof, two glazed-in courtyards flood the conference center in natural light. Daylight penetrates further into the building thanks to two new lightwells that were inserted. The perimeter walls were carefully insulated from the interior to create a high-performance envelope. The windows were replaced with triple-pane replicas that ensure an optimal acoustical and thermal barrier. The hotel is part of the Hilton Tapestry collection and benefits from Hilton promoting the sustainable aspects of the hotel within the industry. The incremental costs of the high-performance envelope and on-site renewable energy were fully paid for up front with CPACE financing, utility incentives and energy tax credits, resulting in an immediate payback and ongoing savings from energy efficiency measures. Federal and state historic tax credits were another critical component of the project financing. This hotel charts new territory and offers a proof of concept for an all-electric hotel while hoping to spur an industry that has been resistant to change.

Owner : 500 LLC

Project Size : 110,000 SF

Project Team : Becker + Becker Associates; Dutch East Design; GNBC Consulting Engineers, P.C.; LN Consulting Engineers; Blades & Goven, LLC; Land-Tech Consultants, Inc.; Philip R. Sherman, P.E.; Steven Winters Associates, Inc.; Hoffmann Architects, Inc.; Second Law; Sinclair Digital, LLC; Ageto Energy, LLC; van Zelm, Heywood & Shadford, Inc.; Focus Lighting, Inc.; Ryan, LLC; Wrightson, Johnson, Haddon & Williams, Inc.; Babbidge Construction Company, Inc.; Consigli Construction Company, Inc.

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Martire Family Arena Fairfield, CT

Sacred Heart University embarked on a state-of-the-art arena serving students, faculty and the surrounding community. Completed under budget, the project team — consisting of 56 subcontractor firms — worked six days a week to facilitate the fast-track build and ensure the facility was ready for January 2023 puck drop. The arena hosts a National Hockey League and NCAA standard rink and is home to the Division I and club hockey programs and figure skating team. Supported by the latest ice management technology and featuring Audiovisual (AV), Broadcast and Lighting equipment designed to National Broadcast Standards, the arena houses world-class training areas, custom locker rooms, a sports medicine and hydrotherapy suite, a Pro Shop and rapid-shot puck room. A learning laboratory enhances educational opportunities for disciplines including sports communication and media, hospitality, sports management and marketing. Working on the active campus, multiple utility and building shutdowns to adjacent buildings were required. Extensive coordination ensured shutdowns were undisruptive to campus operations while tying the Arena to an existing building via a connector bridge. 43,500 cubic yards of rock were removed over eight weeks of blasting and rock removal on the hard-rock site, making way for complex underground utilities including complex M/E/P and ice systems. Virtual Design & Construction (VDC) technology supported coordination of underground systems to ensure proper installation. The steel structure included ten 125,000-pound trusses placed utilizing two cranes. The pre-cast concrete and steel structure was built into a hill where the team excavated 40 feet down. 45-foot-tall foundation walls supported the site. The heart of the M/E/P systems is the ammonia refrigeration used to cool the ice making system, including 13.6 miles of piping in the refrigeration slab. The mechanical room has ammonia detection sensors, an exhaust system and a fire alarm system, which all had to be in place to bring in the ammonia and start making ice given ammonia’s hazardous nature. Also unique to the Arena is its façade; the electrochromic glass is sensitive to light and darkens with UV exposure to prevent UV-caused ice melting and lessen solar heating gain for a reduced cooling load on the building.

Owner : Sacred Heart University

Project Size : 122,580 SF

Project Team : Consigli Construction Co., Inc., JLG Architects, S/L/A/M Collaborative, Haley & Aldrich Inc., Heyer Engineering, B32 Engineering, Obernel Engineering, Anthony James Partners, Ice Builders, Masseys Plate Glass & Aluminum / View Inc

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Red Thread “Workplace Innovation Hub” 55 Hartland Street, Suite 300, East Hartford, Connecticut

THE MAIN LOBBY FEATURES A BOLD ACCENT RUG AND RADIAL CEILING DESIGN LEADING VISITORS INTO THE WORKCAFÉ.

A VARIETY OF WORKSTATIONS, ENCLOSED ROOMS AND TEAM WORKSPACES Professional Photography by: Red Skies Photography - Jake Snyder, Owner

Red Thread, a leader in our industry known for “Connecting You to Workspaces that Work” collaborated with QA+M Architecture to create their new working showroom. Their reimagined workspace demonstrates to clients, employees, and visitors how the built environment showcases their product offerings & highlights different work modes. A dramatic lobby welcomes visitors with its radial ceiling and intentional absence of a formal reception desk. “Mr. Thread” the life -size horse lamp interjects whimsy. The open café/lounge area functions as a café, informal waiting & meeting area, function space and large meeting/event space when its large monitor wall is activated. The entire floor is activated with intentional circulation through the various neighborhoods offering different moods and highlight Hartford skyline and treetop views. Solutions for the hybrid workers abound, showing choices in work modes and postures based on tasks and preferences which may change throughout the day. Elements include conference rooms, a project war room, workstations with sit/stand desks, fun tent like enclosures, private phone booths, plentiful meeting rooms, design library, K-12 products, lockers, and respite rooms. Technology & AV are integral to seamlessly connect remote clients and coworkers, a crucial component especially for hybrid work. The 1980’s building and its outdated, ineffective mechanical systems presented many difficulties to achieve occupant comfort, an important goal for this client. Converting the space to an open structure ceiling with dynamic, interesting zones with different ceiling materials/lighting required careful planning and select reconfiguration of mechanical systems. Collaboration and reality checks among the experienced team were frequent as we carefully balanced the reality of the budget and supply chain against creative design concepts, and we remained agile with reselections as needed. The East Hartford “Workplace Innovation Hub” was created to highlight Red Thread’s commitment and connection to the community. Trade shows, panel discussions and industry functions have already been hosted since their grand opening in September 2022. QA+M was delighted to be selected for such a collaborative and rewarding process. We look forward to using the space as a resource for current and future clients and hope our industry peers do the same!

Owner : Red Thread

Project Size : 18,750 SF

Project Team : QA&M Architecture, Red Thread, Lighting Affiliates, PAC Group LLC, Shaw Contract Flooring

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Southern Connecticut State University Health & Human Services Building New Haven, CT

The new Southern Connecticut State University Health & Human Services Building delivers on an overarching University goal to promote interdisciplinary teaching and research. The 4-story, 94,750 SF building serves as the new heart of SCSU’s Health & Human Services program, consolidating eight campus -wide locations encompassing nearly two-dozen disciplines, uniting their academic centers, clinics, and institutes into one interdisciplinary experience. Every new project is an opportunity to express an institution’s mission. This was no exception given the resounding message uncovered during the process: a need for campus connectivity. As such, a rigors understanding of the programs, shared resources, and synergies that create connectivity formed the basis of all strategic decision-making. This foundation of connectivity is immediately apparent upon viewing the exterior design, with both t he building’s main points of entry being open and transparent, wrapped in glass to emphasize the activity and movement inside. The building also incorporates a recognizable brick and metal panel cladding complementing the campus context and its architectural idiom. Connecting the building to the existing campus, a sculptural metal installation inspired by existing SCSU imagery graces the main façade and a horizontal band between the first and second floors. Once inside, sequences of private, semi-private, and flexible spaces amplify the center’s multi -departmental and collaborative nature. Working with University leadership, designated clusters joined by a common hub were created, bringing students together for casual connections as they move from one area to another. The creativity and knowledge of this unique academic community was leveraged throughout the process in active engagement leading to an abundance of natural light, collaborative spaces, state-of-the-art teaching and training spaces, lecture halls, a demonstration kitchen, and modern human performance laboratories. Committed to high standards of sustainability, the project team worked to slash energy consumption by more than 12% and water use by 30%. About 75% of construction waste was diverted from landfills, and 20% of the building materials comprise recycled content. Truly embodying SCSU’s varied and successful teaching and research programs, the building’s design enhances student academic, social, and clinical experiences, producing graduates prepared to handle the healthcare challenges of today and the future.

Owner : Southern Connecticut State University

Project Size : 94,750 SF

Project Team : Svigals + Partners, LLP, Little Diversified Architectural Consultants, BVH Integrated Services, DTC, Richter & Cegan, GeoInsight, Martin Surveying Assoc., LLC, Martin Geo-Environmental, LLC, SM&W, LLC, Philip R. Sherman, Vermeulens, Turner Construction.

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The Hazel Stamford Stamford, CT

The Hazel Stamford at 523 Canal Street, is a key part of the ongoing transformation of Stamford’s South End, a former manufacturing and mercantile neighborhood. Despite a challenging project process marked by multiple changes of ownership interest, a general contractor that went bankrupt, and supply chain and labor shortage delays, the building was substantially complete in December 2022 and is 80% leased. This seven level structure contains 142 studios and 41 one-bedroom apartments in a U-shaped structure above a two level podium. Designed to LEED Silver standards, the building is within walking distance to the train station and offers a mix of unique, expansive, and cutting-edge tenant amenities and services focused on social opportunities and wellness. The enclosed parking garage includes 128 spaces and electric vehicle charging stations. The collection of indoor amenities includes a communal lounge, coworking spaces, a demonstration kitchen, and a state-of-the-art fitness center. Additional conveniences include a package room, bike storage, a café, and access to an on-site TULU smart-rental store for home products and small appliances, like vacuums. Hudson Table, a public culinary studio, offers immersive hands-on cooking classes and custom events in its state-of-the-art kitchens and operates the ground floor café. Tenants enter the residential building from a bright, modern lobby off of John Street. The South End lacks public open space, so the building’s amenities offer plentiful opportunities to connect with the outdoors. The structure is topped with a landscaped roof terrace with barbeques and covered dining area, as well as a rooftop pool deck. Juliet balconies on each face of the building add to the connection to the outdoors and offer additional “eyes on the street” to help promote a sense of security in the evolving neighborhood. The building’s architectural language is derived from the neighborhood’s historical industrial fabric. By employing simple masonry forms clad in warm brick tones, punctuated by dark metal-framed glazing, metal and-glass canopies at grade, and a large metal cornice at the roof, the building alludes to the best of the South End’s built legacy. The Hazel Stamford connects with its community to provides a template for future development — and inspire the next chapter in its neighborhood’s evolution. The Community Center, designed with moveable partitions to accommodate a range of events, was developed in partnership with the South End’s community group and is available free of charge for community events.

Owner : Alpine Residential/Fields Grade

Project Size : 201,000 SF / 183 units

Project Team : Newman Architects, Alpine Residential, Fields Grade, Hudson Table, Wherewithal, Innovative Engineering Services, DeSimone Consulting Engineers, Wesley Stout Associates

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Viking Global Investors 600 Washington Boulevard, Stamford CT

James Ritman, Janey Steinmetz, and Ben Goldstein represented the tenant, Viking Global Investors, in a new 42,798 SF lease at 600 Washington Boulevard, Stamford. The investment firm is relocating from 55 Railroad Avenue, Greenwich.

Owner : Rubenstein Partners

Project Size : 42,798 SF

Project Team : Viking Global Investors, Newmark, Rubenstein Partners, Jones Lang LaSalle

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Village at Park River – Phase III Hartford, CT

Village at Park River III (VPR III), 65 high-quality mixed income rental residential apartment units situated within six buildings, is the third of six phases of redevelopment of the former Westbrook Village public housing community. VPR III, constructed to meet rigorous building standards, including Passive House, includes 26 1-bedroom units, 31 2-bedroom units, and 8 3-bedroom units, in a mix of two- and three-story wood-frame buildings. Of these units, 50 are reserved for households with incomes up to 60% of the Area Median Income and the remaining 15 units are rented at market rates. When complete, VPR will replace 360 dilapidated public housing units with over 400 units of mixed income rental and homeownership housing, and 80,000 square feet of mixed-use retail commercial development adjacent to the Albany Avenue commercial corridor. VPR includes bike trails and walking paths throughout site, a playground, splash pad, and a dog park. A centrally located clubhouse includes a community room for residents and the community at-large, fitness room, and maintenance and management offices. The clubhouse is surrounded by a park to gather and a community garden. A separate social services office is at the northern edge of the campus. Convenient bus routes surround the site transporting residents to goods, services, and downtown. This transformative development with its combination of residential and retail mixed-use, substantive open space, and recreational amenities provides a greatly enhanced quality of life for both the residents of VPR as well as the adjacent Blue Hills and Upper Albany, City of Hartford neighborhoods. The biggest obstacles were an environmentally contaminated site, working around 100- and 500- year flood plains, and residents’ skepticism that change would finally occur. It is the intent of the comprehensive renewal strategy through the successive development of each phase to knit Village at Park River back into the fabric of the surrounding communities and provide existing and future residents of with high-quality housing choices.

Owner : Pennrose / The Cloud Company

Project Size : 65 units

Project Team : Pennrose, The Cloud Company , Housing Authority of the City of Hartford WRT , QA +M Architecture , Haynes Construction Company , Bank of America , Pennrose Management Company , Freeman Companies, LLC , Innova Services; Builders Design , Connecticut Housing Finance Agency , CT Department of Housing , Hartford Foundation for Public Giving , Silicon Valley Bank

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