The former Connecticut Light & Power (CL&P) building at 330 Railroad Ave. has been approved for listing on the Connecticut Register of Historic Places, Connecticut’s official listing of structures and sites that characterize the historical development of the state. This landmark building was designed and constructed in 1928 for CL&P incorporating many distinctive Art Deco features. Art Deco’s characteristic “step-backs” are articulated by the rhythmic repetition of the tripartite pilasters and recessed window bays, contributing to a cohesive effect. Bringing additional vitality to the exterior, the stylized capitals in contrasting stone and the distinctive brickwork accents display a noteworthy level of decorative detail for such a utilitarian structure.
CL&P was certainly current with the times, if not ahead of them, when it opted for an Art Deco design. The three-story, 30,000-square-foot former industrial building is currently undergoing a complete renovation that will restore and preserve the historic façade design and include all new HVAC, electric service, elevator, plumbing, historic replacement windows, solar roof panels, extensive site work and landscaping all designed by Greenwich’s leading architectural firm, Granoff Architects. The interior of the building features 12- to 14-foot ceiling heights, exposed brick walls, concrete floors and will feel like high-tech office buildings more commonly found in Soho, Tribeca and Brooklyn, New York. Upon completion, the building will be a candidate for LEED Gold certification due to its environmentally sensitive renovation process and sustainable design features.
The property was sold in March 2016 by Eversource Energy to 330 Railroad Avenue LLC, of which the principals are Richard Granoff and Jeffrey B. Mendell, and will be the future headquarters of Granoff Architects.
