Oxford Developer Has High Hopes for The Oxford House

The two men who bought the venerable Oxford House on Route 67 last week say they plan to improve the building while keeping its historic value.

Developer Jay Borkowski of Oxford and his partner, Arnold Karp of New Canaan, purchased the house, built in 1795. They bought it under a New Canaan based limited liability company, The Oxford House LLC, for $295,000.

“We want to restore the building and get a nice restaurant into it,” Borkowski said. “We’re looking at options if we subdivide it. We’re very sensitive to the historical value of the house. We’re thinking of professional offices on the second floor – doctors, lawyers, that type of thing. We’re open for suggestions.”

The Oxford House operated as a restaurant before closing in September 2011. The property was in foreclosure. It had sustained significant damage during recent storms. For example, the builders are clearing water from the basement and stopping leaks in the roof.

“We’re prepared to invest in it; it’s a great piece of property and since I live in Oxford, I was very psyched when it became available,” Borkowski said.

He said he wants a family restaurant that is not too expensive, perhaps one that could feed a family of five for under $100.

“I’d love to see a farmer’s market in there,” he said. “We’ve had some interest already; we want to make sure it’s the right fit for Oxford.”

Real estate agent Pat Blanko of Oxford has worked with Borkowski on residential subdivisions in town, including those off of Somers Lane and on Newgate Road.

“The quality of the work is remarkable,” Blanko said.

She has no doubt that the same level of care will go into refurbishing the Oxford House.

“I’m very excited to have been involved in the sale of this property, and I’m looking forward to seeing this town landmark saved,” she said. “I look forward to it being a place everyone can be proud of, thanks to Jay.”