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The First Presbyterian Church, a.k.a. Fish Church, of Stamford, Connecticut

The First Presbyterian Church of Stamford, Connecticut, affectionately nicknamed "Fish Church" after its distinctive fish-shaped design, stands as a testament to innovative modernist architecture. Completed in 1958, the church is renowned for its striking Dalle de Verre stained glass windows and bold, ornate concrete structure. It is listed on the Connecticut State Register of Historic Places. In 2021, it was designated a National Historic Landmark in January 2021. First Presbyterian (Fish) Church of Stamford courtesy of Church website The First Presbyterian Church of Stamford is a singular example of foremost American architect Wallace K. Harrison’s neo-Expressionist approach to Modern architecture. To see…

The Abattoir at Ottis State Forest Farm, Lower Spectacle Pond

One of our very notable projects this year has been the Abattoir at the Ottis State Forest Farm on Lower Spectacle Pond in Sandisfield, Massachusetts. This building was once part of the privately owned Spectacle Pond Farm, located within Otis State Forest. The Abattoir is a significant historical structure that dates back nearly two centuries. It is one of the few remaining examples of its kind in the state of Massachusetts. What is an Abattoir? We preservationists like to pretty things up when we can. Sometimes, a French word is perfect when the English equivalent is unpleasant. This is a…

Energy Analysis: Original Wood Windows versus Replacement Windows

What's the real cost of replacement windows? We think there are so many reasons to save original wood windows versus replacing them. Unfortunately, the advertisements of replacement window companies are loud, and claims of the money that can be saved in energy costs are vehement. What isn’t mentioned is the fact that replacement windows won’t last long enough to make that savings legitimate, or all the embodied energy costs that are involved in the replacement window process. When you dig a little deeper, is it really a savings? We know people like the numbers, so let’s look at some: Single…

YES, Old Wood Windows Can Be Energy Efficient!

One of the most common things we hear is, “old wood windows are not energy efficient.” This idea becomes the rationale behind why many old wood windows end up in the landfill. Unfortunately, many people are misinformed and fall for these claims that wood windows are not energy efficient. The truth is old wood windows can be made just as energy efficient as new, double-glazed windows. Like any building component, they need the necessary care and upkeep to maintain both operation and energy efficiency. Original wood windows can compete effectively against newer replacements when these needs are met: Properly Maintained…

The First Presbyterian Church, a.k.a. Fish Church, of Stamford, Connecticut

The Abattoir at Ottis State Forest Farm, Lower Spectacle Pond

Energy Analysis: Original Wood Windows versus Replacement Windows

YES, Old Wood Windows Can Be Energy Efficient!

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