Located just south of the Hartford’s Central Business District are several unparalleled cultural and historical assets: The former Colt Industrial Complex, now a National Historic Landmark; and Colt Park, also listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Combined they tell the story of The Colt Manufacturing Co. which sparked the greatest prosperity the City has ever known, placing Hartford at the center of the industrial innovation and production technology in the early 20th century.
TSKP STUDIO has been involved with the redevelopment of both properties for the past 15 years beginning with a master plan for redevelopment of the former Colt Industrial complex and ongoing restoration work. Initial work included documentation of all facilities and the application/inventory for National Park Service Historic Landmark Designation.
East Armory, built in 1867, entailed custom brick sizes and narrow joints on east facade, recreation of custom wood doors in several locations, abatement and replacement of wood windows for occupied 2nd floor area, and standing metal seam roof detailed to echo historic images of the building. Infrastructure work entailed: new passenger and service elevators, new fire exit stairs and rough building utilities to serve all floors.