The redevelopment of the 100 year-old vacant Post Office represented a unique opportunity to preserve a landmark, historic property in a vibrant downtown business district. We preserved the National Register of Historic Places original post office structure and reused the front portion for 3 new commercial condominiums. This specific unit was purchased by a local independent real estate firm to serve as their new office. The natural slope of the site was utilized to provide access from Haven Street to this new addition from the existing building’s previously underground basement level.
The new lower-level addition on the site was reflective of the changing nature of the neighborhood. The design of this new addition allowed the real estate office to be situated underneath the new outdoor patio lounge/dining space created for the new 168-seat restaurant. We reviewed and embraced the principles of the Downtown Smart Growth District while respecting the iconic look of the existing post office as recognized by the Town’s Historical Commission including the monumental stair. Carefully designed front additions and walkways help connect building to street without harming the historic character.
As the chosen architects to design the redevelop of this property, we recognize that this was a once in a lifetime opportunity. The creation of this small office completes the redevelopment and provides a unique office environment for a local business.
