Michael Tyre Writes About Designing for Neurodiverse Students in Inside Higher Ed
Inside Higher Ed recently published an article by Michael Tyre, in which the Amenta Emma President-Elect discusses his approach to designing a classroom for neurodiverse students at Smith College. From the article: When my architecture firm was asked to submit a proposal for a suite of projects at Smith College in Northampton, Massachusetts, including a […]
Anthony Kershaw Completes Phius Certification
Congratulations to Amenta Emma team member, Anthony Kershaw, on completing his Phius Certified Consultant certification. Phius Certified Consultants (CPHCs) learn to design to the Phius climate-specific building standard, the leading passive building certification in North America.
James Regnier Earns Architectural License
Congratulations to Amenta Emma team member, James Regnier, who has passed the Architectural Registration Examination and is now a Massachusetts licensed architect! James joined our firm in March, bringing with him a strong passion for digital design and 3D modeling. He is currently serving as Job Captain for the New School of Nursing building at […]
Senior-Living Convent Conversation Featured in Hartford Courant
The Hartford Courant recently quoted architect Adam Palmer about his designs for the renovation and expansion of the Saint Felix building on the Felician Sisters campus in Enfield. The project, which was recently approved following some revisions, will add 45 units of low-income housing for seniors. From the article, written by Don Stacom: After extensive […]
Michael Tyre Discusses Neuro-inclusive Design on The Second Studio Podcast
Amenta Emma President-Elect and Director of Design, Michael Tyre, was recently invited onto The Second Studio podcast to discuss the impact that architecture and design can have on neuro-diverse populations. During the in-depth conversation with hosts David Lee and Marina Bourderonnet, Michael drew on his experience designing the Young Classroom at Smith College to explain […]
Amenta Emma Featured in ‘Next Avenue’ Article About Human-Centered Design
Next Avenue recently interviewed Myles Brown about the Burnham Family Memory Care Residence at Avery Heights for an article about human-centered design for long-term care facilities. From the article, written by John F. Wasik: Some human-centered design considerations can be relatively straightforward. The Burnham Family Memory Care Residence at Avery Heights in Hartford, Connecticut, for […]
BVP Project Wins AIA CT Business Architecture Award of Excellence
AIA Connecticut has announced the winners of the 2024 Business Architecture Awards. This prestigious award honors architects and their clients whose projects help achieve the client’s business goals and create an outsized impact through the design of the built environment. Amenta Emma’s project for Bessemer Venture Partners, located in New York, NY, has been selected […]
Greg Biancardi Joins Amenta Emma
We are pleased to welcome Greg Biancardi, AIA, LEED AP, as Project Manager to our Hartford office. Greg brings with him over 27 years of experience in master planning, design, and project management of large complex project types including high-rise office and residential towers, mixed-use developments, transportation, and life science complexes. He earned his Bachelor […]
AE Design Tour: Quinnipiac University
For our second design field trip of 2024, we toured the campus of Quinnipiac University. We started with a walk-thru of our project, in partnership with Ayers Saint Gross, The Grove – a new 417-bed residence that will open in the fall. The Grove is part of the University’s new South Quad which includes the SITE […]
Mass Timber: Challenges
3-Part Series In previous posts, we introduced readers to mass timber technology and some of the hidden benefits of this structural system in our residential development, Bushnell South in downtown Hartford. While we are excited to be using mass timber for the project, we would be remiss in not addressing some of the challenges we […]
Connecticut DECD Awards $3.3 Million Brownfields Grant to Meadow Gardens Redevelopment Project in Norwalk
The Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD) has awarded a $3,294,527 Brownfields grant to the Meadow Gardens redevelopment project in Norwalk, CT. The grant, announced by Governor Ned Lamont at a press conference will fund the demolition and abatement of existing structures on the site, paving the way for a transformative new development. […]
Mass Timber: Unexpected Benefits
3-Part Series In a recent blog post, we introduced readers to a new construction method using mass timber, and we covered some concerns raised during our public presentations over the Bushnell South residential development in downtown Hartford. The questions of ‘why mass timber?’ and ‘is it safe?’ were addressed early in the design process. As […]
AE Design Tour: Cambridge
Typically held 4-5 times a year and open to everyone in the firm, our design tours offer staff a chance to go beyond our screens and physically engage with notable projects while encouraging critical conversation around our collective experience. We aim to get at the heart of how and why projects are considered a success. […]
Sustainability: Passive House, Active Results
In the realm of sustainable architecture, PHIUS (Passive House Institute US), stands out as a beacon of energy efficiency and environmental consciousness. Sustainable Architecture Week 2024 is a good time to understand more about this program. Mary Shepard Place – Hartford, CT / Sustainability At its core, PHIUS embraces several key principles aimed at drastically […]
Harnessing the Power of Sunlight
In the realm of architectural design few elements hold as much transformative power as sunlight. Its presence in the built environment can shape our experiences within spaces, influence our mood and contribute to the overall sustainability of a structure. Amenta Emma has long embraced sunlight as a fundamental element in our design philosophy, pairing its […]
Working Towards A Sustainable Future
Amenta Emma’s Commitment to a Sustainable Design Practice The built environment bears a substantial responsibility to planetary health, contributing a staggering 42 percent of global carbon emissions and significantly influencing climate change and future landscapes. Sustainable Architecture Week 2024 provides a forum to reflect on our progress and the work we’ve done to change that […]
Hartford Business Journal Q&A With Michael Tyre
The Hartford Business Journal interviewed Michael Tyre in a Q&A about the firm’s plans for growth and new leadership. From the article written by Greg Bordonaro: Hartford-based Amenta Emma Architects last year kicked off an ambitious 10-year strategic plan, with goals that include doubling its staff size and becoming a regional design leader in New […]
Design Development with Rens Hayes IV
Founding Partner, Tony Amenta, was a recent guest on the Design Development with Rens Hayes IV podcast. In this episode, Rens and Tony explore the entrepreneurial journey of establishing and growing a successful architecture firm in changing markets. Listen or watch on YouTube, Spotify, LinkedIn, Apple or Google Podcasts.
New Building Technology: Mass Timber
3-Part Series One exciting thing about architecture is the possibilities of evolving technologies and materials. An example is Amenta Emma’s downtown Hartford project – Bushnell South. The project will replace a currently underutilized parking lot in the heart of the city with more than 200 residential units in a mix of rental and ownership models. […]
Carbon Neutrality: The Sustainable Case for Designing With Wood
The construction industry contributes approximately 40 percent of global CO2 emissions. These emissions can be broken down into operational and embodied carbon. Operational carbon is realized during a building’s operation, while embodied carbon is released before and after a building’s operation. To lower carbon emissions and meet the Architecture2030 goal that all buildings, developments, and […]
2023 Year In Review
As we anticipate the possibilities of the new year, we take a moment to share a snapshot of events and accomplishments from 2023. Read here.
Fall ’23 Teaching Firm in Residence at RWU
We are honored to join a distinguished list of Teaching Firms in Residence at RWU Cummings School of Architecture. Amenta Emma team members Eric Weyant, Jeremy Jamilkowski, and Thomas Barker will be teaching the graduate-level design studio focused on multi-family housing this fall semester, with project sites in Martha’s Vineyard and Boston. Established in 2007, the Architecture Teaching Firm […]
Senior Living: Revolution or Evolution?
The generation that influenced cultural change in the 60’s and 70’s with marches for civil rights, women’s rights, and against war, is on the cusp of another social movement. They want to age differently. The World Health Organization (WHO) predicts that by 2050, 22 percent of the world’s population will be over the age of […]
Animal Resource Center Breaks Ground
The Animal Resource Center for Connecticut Humane Society (CHS) in Wilton, CT broke ground on September 7. The new 13,971 GSF building will convey the organization’s goals and values, providing a professional and compassionate environment to support the adoption and treatment of animals. In attendance were Amenta Emma design team members, our collaborators, Animal Arts […]
Canaan Parish Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
A Ribbon Cutting ceremony was held for the new Canaan Parish affordable housing community in New Canaan, CT, on July 25th. In attendance was Governor Ned Lamont, local officials including First Selectman Kevin Moynihan, Scott Hobbs, chairman of the Housing Authority of New Canaan, and members of the General Assembly. Governor Lamont praised the subsidized and affordable […]
Thoughtful Design is Inclusive
A new apartment community recently opened in the affluent community of New Canaan, CT, drawing praise from residents, town leaders and state legislators. The two L-shaped buildings frame a generous green space with outdoor amenities like a multi-purpose sports court, playground, community garden and sledding hill. Inside units have large windows with commanding views, 9-foot […]
2022 Year In Review
Amenta Emma 2022 Year In Review
Orange Pop! Welcome To The Neighborhood
Amenta Emma completes 8th floor renovations for The Hartford Steam Boiler Inspection and Insurance Company.
LeadingAge Annual Meeting + Expo
Senior living team members Myles Brown and Emily Knipe will be in Denver next week at the annual LeadingAge Annual Meeting + Expo.
My Architecture Workshops Summer Camp 2022 Grant Award
AIA Connecticut recently interviewed four newly licensed architects from Amenta Emma for a feature in ArchiType magazine on their process for studying for the Architect Registration Exam.
Orange Pop! Innovation Central
Amenta Emma completes the new engineering building at Central Connecticut State University – Applied Innovation Hub.
Team Members Participate in Habitat Build Day
Amenta Emma team members participated in a Habitat for Humanity Build Day.
Orange Pop! Wood Tones
Amenta Emma completes renovation for Hartford HealthCare’s Jefferson House.
Women in Construction Spotlight Features Beth Pearcy and Kelly Johnson
Beth Pearcy, AIA and Kelly Johnson are featured in the NEREJ “Women In Construction Spotlight” which is dedicated to women and their accomplishments in the A/E/C industry.
Amenta Emma Announces Promotions
Amenta Emma Architects recently announced the promotion of three team members. Thomas Barker has been promoted to Associate and Pawel Honc and Nicole Owens have been promoted to Senior Associate.
Prepping for the ARE? Tips from Amenta Emma’s Newly Licensed Architects
AIA Connecticut recently interviewed four newly licensed architects from Amenta Emma for a feature in ArchiType magazine on their process for studying for the Architect Registration Exam.
Alexis Hoff Passes Architectural Registration Exam
Congratulations to Amenta Emma team member, Alexis Hoff, who passed the Architectural Registration Examination and will be a licensed architect in the State of Connecticut.
2021 Year In Review
Amenta Emma 2021 Year In Review
Design for Southington Care Center Wins AIA Design For Aging Review Award
The AIA Design for Aging Review (DFAR) released its list of Merit and Special Recognition awards on November 2. The design for the Southington Care Center Memory Care Renovations was awarded a Merit Award.
Amenta Emma Receives 8 Merit Awards at AIA Connecticut Awards Gala
Amenta Emma honored by the AIA CT across a broad range of categories at the 2021 Awards Gala.
Randy Begin Passes Architectural Registration Exam
Congratulations to Amenta Emma team member, Randy Begin, who passed the Architectural Registration Examination and will be a licensed architect in the State of Connecticut.
Ribbon Cutting at Canaan Parish
A Ribbon Cutting ceremony was held on Tuesday, 10/26 to celebrate the opening of a rebuilt 60-unit affordable housing complex – part of the Canaan Parish redevelopment designed by Amenta Emma. Several elected and appointed officials, as well as municipal workers, were in attendance.
Tom Barker and Alexis Hoff Receive AIA CT Emerging Professionals Awards
Congratulations to Tom Barker, AIA, and Alexis Hoff, Associate AIA, on receiving AIA Connecticut 2021 Emerging Professionals awards.
WNPR INTERVIEWS MYLES BROWN ABOUT NURSING HOME DESIGN
Amenta Emma’s renovation of Connecticut’s State Office Building has been recognized by Interior Design Magazine as a finalist in the Best of Year award program.
INTERIOR DESIGN MAGAZINE NAMES 165 CAPITOL AVE BEST OF YEAR PROJECT HONOREE
Amenta Emma’s renovation of Connecticut’s State Office Building has been recognized by Interior Design Magazine as a finalist in the Best of Year award program.
AMENTA EMMA WINS THREE IN AIA CT DESIGN AWARDS
Amenta Emma has been honored with three Merit awards in the 2020 AIA Connecticut Design Awards. The New Haven offices for quasi-public venture capital firm Connecticut Innovations was recognized in the Interior Architecture category. Amenta Emma’s workplace studio adapted a 1950s-era bus station into a 9,000-square-foot headquarters, encompassing offices, meeting rooms, collaborative areas and open work areas. […]
FOX 61 FEATURES AMENTA EMMA SENIOR LIVING DESIGN
Amenta Emma was recently recognized with the 2020 IIDA NE Senior Living Design Award for the Southington Care Center second floor reception area and courtyard. FOX 61 met Myles Brown, who heads Amenta Emma’s senior living studio, at the site to discuss how the design is helping residents through the pandemic. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, Myles and […]
AMENTA EMMA WINS CREW CT AWARD FOR WEAVER HIGH SCHOOL
Amenta Emma Architects and talented project team won the CREW CT Best in Class: Academic award for the amazing transformation of Weaver High School in Hartford, CT. The winning projects were announced at the virtual Blue Ribbon Awards presentation held on October 1, 2020. Renovations to the 1960’s building include a new transparent façade which […]
AMENTA EMMA WINS IIDA NE AWARD FOR SOUTHINGTON CARE CENTER DESIGN
Amenta Emma Architects won the 2020 IIDA New England Senior Living Award for the firm’s design of the Southington Care Center second floor outdoor patio garden, garden room and nurses’ station. The award was announced September 16, 2020, at the IIDA New England Chapter’s virtual award presentation live from Boston. The International Interior Design Association […]
OFFICE SNAPSHOTS HIGHLIGHTS AMENTA EMMA IN RETURN-TO-WORKPLACE FEATURE
Amenta Emma’s design for the new Connecticut Innovations office at District New Haven is included in an Office Snapshots roundup of return-to-workplace solutions for the post-COVID office. Flexible glass spaces within an exposed, high-ceiling, semi-industrial environment turned out to be a better design choice than we ever could have guessed–and a big help in working […]
NEW ENGLAND JOURNAL OF HIGHER EDUCATION PUBLISHES ARTICLE BY MICHAEL TYRE
The New England Journal of Higher Education, the publication of the New England Board of Higher Education, published a detailed article by Amenta Emma Principal Michael Tyre about how colleges and universities can express and build their brand through campus design. Michael offers a framework for thinking about long-term campus planning, as well as questions […]
HARTFORD COURANT HIGHLIGHTS HISTORY AND FUTURE OF ONE PARK
The Hartford Courant recently published a detailed article about the $65 million conversion of the West Hartford convent on Park Road into apartments. The Courant explores the history of the site and the future of the project–which will bring 292 much needed rental housing units to the city–and describes how Amenta Emma Architects created a […]
West Hartford Town Council Grants Tax Abatement for One Park Road Project
The West Hartford Town Council made a historic move – in part for the sake of history – by granting a tax stabilization agreement to the developer of Amenta Emma designed One Park Road, paving the way for the $66 million project to move forward in a manner that preserves the chapel and the grounds […]
TOPPING OFF CEREMONY MARKS PROGRESS ON CONSTRUCTION OF CCSU ENGINEERING BUILDING
Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, construction of the new engineering building at Central Connecticut State University has continued on schedule toward a spring 2021 completion. KBE Building Corporation recently completed the steel framework for the project, which was designed by Amenta Emma Architects, and celebrated with a topping off ceremony. Photos by Fly on the Wall […]
Sustainable Architecture Week – Day 5: Developing a Sustainability Action Plan
Beyond employing energy modeling software, building rating systems and material transparency initiatives,Amenta Emma aims to further strengthen our leadership in sustainable design and the built environment through continual learning and collaboration with strategic partners and clients.
Sustainable Architecture Week – Day 4: Material Transparency
Amenta Emma recognizes the impact design has on the well-being of building occupants. From the macro to the micro level, buildings play a significant role in the health of humans and the environment. Materials are the simplest building component and therefore changes in this sector can have exponential impact.
Sustainable Architecture Week – Day 3: Building Rating Systems & Certifications – What Comes After LEED?
Amenta Emma has committed to developing expertise and leadership through accreditation and integrating into our practice the tenets of more advanced rating systems and standards established by the International Living Future Institute and the Passive House Institute.
Sustainable Architecture Week – Day 2: Building Performance Analysis Tools
To help meet the goals established by the Architecture2030 and the mission of the AIA 2030 Commitment, Amenta Emma is incorporating building performance analysis tools into our repertoire of software.
Sustainable Architecture Week – Day 1: Architecture 2030 Challenge
As we join together with other Connecticut architecture firms in celebrating Sustainable Architecture Week, we will be sharing how our practice is focused on creating responsible and healthy environments for our clients, our communities, and our planet.
Color by Number: Wayfinding Strategies for Complex Buildings
While the use of strong, bold colors works well for visitors to a building or parking garage, different strategies are needed for people who work in the same place.