Linus B. Plimpton House

Listed in the National Register of Historic Places as a landmark, the Linus B. Plimpton House is a high-style Italianate house constructed in 1884. The house fell into disrepair as a home for the aged before the restoration of the building as transitional senior housing.

The project received funding from the CT Department of Housing (DOH), which required compliance with DOH standards, most of which were contrary to the Secretary of the Interior’s Guidelines for Historic Preservation.  Throughout the design process the DOH requirements and the National Park Service guidelines were successfully balanced while solving the programmatic, code and technical aspects of the project.  Ultimately DOH was enlightened as to the importance of this architectural landmark. Design solutions were found for the various unique aspects of this building that were responsive to DOH’s concerns and did not compromise the historic integrity of the building.

Crosskey Architect’s first important technical restoration of elaborate decorative historic materials, a meticulous plan was developed to restore the discovered stenciled ceilings and walls, leaded glass windows, glazed tile fireplace mantles, wood trim and floors, slate roofing, masonry and brownstone, and other historic details.

Meeting building and fire safety codes without compromising the integrity was challenging. Alternative solutions were developed with the local fire marshal’s office to create a safe environment.

This project restores an important work of architecture while creating a unique and comfortable living environment for the residents.