| Location | Norwalk, CT |
| Owner | Hartford Healthcare |
| Industry | Healthcare |
| General Contractor | FIP Construction |
| Completion Date | May 2023 |
Project Background
The property at 32 Knight Street, originally constructed in 1940 as the C.R. Gibson printing company facility, later housed the Lillian August furniture store. Following the store’s relocation, the building underwent significant renovation to convert approximately 47,000 square feet into modern office space, while preserving its historic architectural elements.
The Challenge
C&H Electric faced several challenges in this project:
- Historic Preservation: Integrating modern electrical systems into a structure with significant historical value, ensuring that upgrades did not compromise the building’s architectural integrity.
- Partial Demolition and Renovation: Coordinating electrical installations in a building undergoing partial demolition (approximately 50,000 square feet) while maintaining services to the sections being preserved and renovated.
- Compressed Timeline: Completing electrical work within a tight schedule to accommodate incoming tenants, including a cardiology practice requiring operational facilities by June 1.
The Solution
To address these challenges, C&H Electric implemented the following solutions:
- Customized Electrical Design: Developed and installed electrical systems tailored to the building’s historic framework, ensuring compliance with modern standards without altering the preserved architectural features.
- Phased Implementation: Executed electrical installations in phases, aligning with the demolition and construction schedule to ensure seamless integration and minimal disruption.
- Efficient Project Management: Collaborated closely with the property owners and construction teams to meet the accelerated timeline, ensuring that the facilities were ready for the incoming medical office tenants as scheduled.
The Results
C&H Electric’s expertise and meticulous approach resulted in:
- Successful Modernization: The historic building now features state-of-the-art electrical systems that support modern office functionalities while preserving its architectural heritage.
- Tenant Readiness: Completed electrical installations within the required timeframe, facilitating the timely move-in of the cardiology practice and other tenants.
- Enhanced Property Value: The integration of modern electrical infrastructure has increased the building’s appeal and functionality, contributing to its value in the commercial real estate market.
C&H Electric’s commitment to quality and adaptability ensured the successful transformation of 32 Knight Street into a functional and historically preserved office space.
