Greenwich Historical Society Seeks Nominations for 2015 Landmark Recognition Program

The deadline to nominate historically and architecturally significant homes for the Greenwich Historical Society annual Landmark Recognition Program is approaching.

Established more than 25 years ago, the program is celebrates the town’s architectural heritage as a means to encourage preservation. Since the program — originally known as ‘Signs of the Times’ — was established in 1987, nearly 300 town buildings, including homes, commercial buildings and structures, have been recognized with landmark plaques. Each plaqued property is professionally researched, documented and preserved in the Historical Society’s Archive.

“This is an excellent opportunity for Greenwich residents to participate in the Historical Society’s preservation efforts which help make our town so special,” Robin Kencel, the new chairperson of the Landmark Recognition Program, said in a statement. “We’re looking for a variety of styles, sizes and periods to reflect Greenwich’s unique cultural heritage.”

According to Kencel, selection criteria embody elements that define design and architectural excellence and evoke a sense of “magic.” Homes, buildings and structures must be at least 50 years old and exhibit:

• Rigorous architectural style and design that fits well into the landscape and is suited to its environment
• High quality building materials
• Well-proportioned and designed rooms with a sense of scale and detail that complements the style of the structure.

The selection committee includes architects Ira Grandberg and Amanda Martocchio, art historians John Dixon and Anne Walker, and architectural photographer Michael Biondo. The committee will select four structures to receive the 2015 Plaque. The plaque presentations will be made at a reception at the Greenwich Country Club on April 26.

Applications for nominating homes and buildings are available by contacting the historical society’s archivist Christopher Shields, at cshields@greenwichhistory.org or by calling 203-869-6899, Ext. 23. The deadline for nominations is Nov. 8.

The Greenwich Landmark Recognition program is supported by David Ogilvy & Associates, Charles Hilton Architects and HUB International/Ace Insurance.

Contributed photo: In front, Anne Walker; second row from left: Ira Grandberg, Grandberg & Associates Architects; Robin Kencel, program chairperson also of The Fieldstone Group of Sotheby’s International Realty; John Dixon; Amanda Martocchio, Amanda Martocchio Architecture + Design, and Michael Biondo, Michael Biondo Photography.

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