Projects

Fairfield University, Bellarmine Museum of Art

Fairfield, Connecticut

Architect: Centerbrook Architects and Planners, LLC

The existing lower level area in the University’s historic signature building was renovated and converted into a museum for their Renaissance and Baroque collection. The work, which took place directly below the University President’s office, included demolition, interior fit up to museum quality finish levels, new HVAC systems, and electrical system upgrades.

Awards:

2012 AIA Connecticut Merit Design Award (presented to Centerbrook Architects and Planners)

2011 CT-ABC Excellence in Construction Award

2011 CBC Project Team Award

Knights of Columbus Museum

New Haven, Connecticut

Architect: Kevin Roche John Dinkeloo and Associates

This unique thirty-three year old concrete office building was transformed into a world-class museum for the Knights’ historic artifacts. The renovation included nearly 25,000 sf of exhibit area as well as six major galleries and a striking two-story atrium. The transformed space consists of the Wall of History and a Media Room boasting a highly detailed picture etched into the floor-to-ceiling glass wall. To enhance the museum’s interactivity, touch screen video monitors appear along gallery walls and a high-tech electronic research center features flat screen computer monitors on a dramatic black granite table. Petra’s in-house millshop designed and built many of the display cases and developed innovative techniques for hanging some of the larger exhibit pieces. The team also assisted with unpacking and setting up centuries old artifacts as well as arranging for fine arts insurance coverage. Sophisticated new mechanical and electrical systems and specially designed wet and dry fire protection devices were also installed.

Award:

2002 AGCCT Build Connecticut Award

Knights of Columbus Museum Exhibits

New Haven, Connecticut

Architect: Knights of Columbus

Petra continues to be the Museum’s exhibit contractor and performs virtually all construction, renovation and display work at the Museum. Renovations have included the Wall of History, lobby renovation, new States Gifts Gallery, and new council meeting room. Exhibits completed include:

• Fleeing Famine: Irish Immigration to North America
• Mission of Faith: The Coming of the Gospel to America
• Answering the Call: Service and Charity in the Civil War
• Illuminating the Word: The Saint John's Bible
• Windows into Heaven: Russian Icons and Treasures
• Full of Grace: Crowned Madonnas from the Vatican Basilica
• Mother Teresa: Life, Spirituality and Message
• The Art of Antonella Cappuccio: Contemporary Italian Paintings
• Etchings of the Eternal City: Piranesi's Rome
• The Swiss Guard: Celebrating 500 Years of Papal Service
• Blessed: A Tribute to John Paul II Exhibit
• Creating St. Peter's: Architectural Treasures of the Vatican

Knights of Columbus, Saint John Paul II National Shrine

Washington, DC

Architect: Knights of Columbus

The Knights of Columbus purchased the Pope John Paul II Cultural Center in 2011 and began a series of renovations. As part of the project, a new shrine and permanent exhibit was created for Saint John Paul II. The project also required relocating the St. Peter’s exhibit from the Knights of Columbus Museum in New Haven to the Shrine in Washington. Petra was proud to build this very special exhibit in our nation’s capital. In 2014, the shrine formally reopened as the Saint John Paul II National Shrine.

Petra also assisted with the installation of the following exhibits at the Shrine:

• Habemus Papam: The Journey from Conclave to Pope
• Christmas Across Africa

Yale Peabody Museum of Natural History

New Haven, Connecticut

Architect: Kevin Roche John Dinkeloo and Associates

The Peabody Museum, owned by Yale University, was in need of an upgrade to its climate control systems to provide better protection for priceless exhibits and a world famous plaster mural that was beginning to show signs of deterioration from heat and humidity. A new HVAC system was installed in the Museum’s Great Hall, directly above the exhibits. Special considerations for sound and vibration were crucial as vibrations caused by the work had the potential to destroy the large assembled dinosaur skeleton. Also imperative that the Museum remain open throughout the duration, the mechanical upgrade took place over a period of months.

Schick-Wilkinson Sword, West Office Lobby

Milford, Connecticut

Architect: Dean Sakamoto Architects with Pelizza Robinson Architects

This project included not only a complete lobby renovation, but a series of museum displays depicting over two hundred years of Schick-Wilkinson Sword history. Crafted to museum-quality specifications, the design team created an extraordinarily stylish design. The complex lobby and corporate museum space consists of custom fabricated walls, detailed with stainless steel, glass, and wood. The project remained open to the public throughout construction.

Awards:

2004 AGCCT Build Connecticut Award

2004 ABC Excellence in Construction Award - Certificate of Commendation

2003 CT-ABC Excellence in Construction Award

2003 AIA Connecticut Design Award (presented to Dean Sakamoto Architects w/Pelizza-Robinson Architects)

Connecticut Center for Arts and Technology, Culinary Arts Facility

New Haven, Connecticut

Architect: Svigals + Partners, LLP

ConnCAT's new culinary arts program required an 8,000 sf interior fit-out on the lower level of their existing facility in Science Park. The new space serves as both a teaching and commercial kitchen and includes a 1,800 sf commercial/production kitchen, classroom for cooking demonstrations, café, outdoor patio, pantry for dry goods, walk-in fridge/freezer, offices, lockers, and laundry room.

New Haven Country Club

Hamden, Connecticut

Architect: Ameche Architects

A central gathering place for members and guests, this 100-year-old historic clubhouse required a major renovation. All public spaces within the facility were renovated including the main dining room, entrance foyer, lounge, bar, lounge porch, main lobby, gazebo porch, President’s grille, main grille, card room, pre-function spaces, men and women’s locker rooms, staff offices, and a new business office. The scope also included significant upgrading of mechanical and electrical systems, replacement of floor and wall finishes, installation of new decorative lighting, repair of several roof areas, replacement of doors, windows and rain gutters, and improvements to site drainage.

Awards:

2008 AGCCT Build Connecticut Award

2007 CT-ABC Excellence in Construction Award

2007 ABC Excellence in Construction Award - Certificate of Commendation

ROÌA Restaurant

New Haven, Connecticut

Architect: Patriquin Architects

The existing ballroom/restaurant facility located within the historic Taft Hotel, built in 1912, was completely renovated and restored. The project included the repair and restoration of existing wall paneling, decorative plaster ceilings, and marble tile flooring. A new commercial kitchen, restaurant millwork, bars, seating, lighting, etc. were also installed. The millwork was custom fabricated to match the existing historic millwork.

Historic Designation:

U.S. National Register of Historic Places, Chapel Street Commercial Historic District

Saint Barbara Greek Orthodox Church

Orange, Connecticut

Architect: BL Companies

The Church's existing facility was renovated and expanded to accommodate more space for worship and special events. The 12,000 sf addition includes a social hall which seats up to 350, a lounge, classrooms, and a full commercial kitchen. The scope also included sitework for the integration of the agora as well as installation of foundation for the future addition of a full free-standing gymnasium. Two construction site logistics plans were established so the Church could continue to host large functions during construction.

Smith College, Campus Center Café

Northampton, Massachusetts

Architect: Analogue Studio, LLC

The fast-track summer renovation of the Campus Center Café included demolition and expansion to enhance the overall safety of the kitchen by providing additional prep space and work flow area. The steel framed addition was cantilevered off the existing curved building to avoid adding to the building footprint. Petra Construction's in-house millshop shop fabricated the Café’s new interior cashier stations.

Union League Café

New Haven, Connecticut

Architect: Kenneth Boroson Architects, LLC

Located in the historic Sherman Building, built in 1860, this New Haven landmark required a substantial renovation to expand its facility. Second floor offices were converted into a dining area and a new commercial kitchen. The project also included the replacement of a historic grand mahogany staircase leading from the wood paneled main dining room to the new grand ballroom on the second floor. High level carpentry and finish work was required to integrate the redesigned staircase and new ballroom additions into the existing old world millwork.

Historic Designation:

U.S. National Register of Historic Places, Chapel Street Commercial Historic District

University of New Haven, Bergami Hall

West Haven, Connecticut

Architect: Kagan Architects and Planners

This new 67,000 sf residence hall includes a dining and kitchen facility as well as student activity and support space below grade and retail and office space on the first floor. The food service facility occupies 5,800 sf of space in the basement and contains the kitchen, serving lines, and seating area for patrons. Coordination with Sodexo food services and the University was critical to expediting delivery and connection of the kitchen and servery equipment. An exhaust stack was installed through four upper floors to vent directly to the roof. The basement also includes an adjacent recreation area, mail and laundry rooms, a classroom and office space.

Awards:

2006 AGCCT Build Connecticut Award - Honorable Mention

2005 ABC Excellence in Construction Award - Certificate of Commendation

2004 CT-ABC Excellence in Construction - Jury Award for Uniqueness of Project & Design

University of New Haven, Echlin Dining Hall

West Haven, Connecticut

Architect: Sasaki Associates, Inc.

The Echlin Dining Hall in Bartels Hall was renovated and expanded to increase capacity and efficiency. The two-story addition doubled the primary dining area's seating capacity and contains a faculty dining room, meeting rooms and a reception area to accommodate a variety of functions and student activities. The kitchen and serving area was completely renovated and new kitchen equipment was installed. The scope also included an extensive outdoor dining terrace. Petra Construction served as both the Program Manager and Construction Manager for this project.

Yale-New Haven Hospital, Brioche Dorée, Atrium Café

New Haven, Connecticut

Architect: Brasher Design

The former “Atrium Café”, located on the first floor of the Hospital, was converted into a new café for the French-based establishment, “Brioche Dorée.” Renovations included the complete removal of the interior of the existing cafe and constructing a new full service café, complete with food service equipment, extensive millwork, and interior finishes. The project was completed within a very aggressive schedule to support reopening of this very active food service.

Yale-New Haven Hospital, East Pavilion Cafeteria

New Haven, Connecticut

Architect: Shepley Bulfinch

The Hospital’s main cafeteria was in need of upgrades to improve functionality, food quality and comfort for patients, visitors and staff. The project included the replacement and coordination of kitchen equipment, new terrazzo flooring, and installation of a completely new MEP system. In addition to improving traffic flow, a new lighting control system, state-of-the-art menu monitors; large salt water custom aquarium and fireplace give patrons a sense of wellbeing, health and comfort.

Award:

2014 AGCCT Build Connecticut Merit Award

LEED Certification in progress

Yale-New Haven Hospital, Main Kitchen

New Haven, Connecticut

Architect: Joseph T. Sepot Architects

The Hospital’s food service program was converted from heat-and-serve to preparing custom orders upon patient request through a new room service program. The entire existing kitchen was demolished and retrofitted to accommodate the new full-service kitchen including all new cooking lines, tray assembly lines, and a communications room with 14 computer stations. The new kitchen serves both patients and the Hospital cafeteria.

Yale University, The Refectory at Divinity School

New Haven, Connecticut

Architect: LDL Studio Inc.

The Refectory's dining room, servery and kitchen, located on the second floor of Yale's Divinity School, were completely upgraded. This fast-track renovation transformed the outdated and inefficient space into an inviting social environment with energy efficient equipment, lighting and sustainable materials. The project included demolition and complete reconstruction including equipment systems, finishes, millwork, solid surface countertops and elaborate finishes and materials.

87 Post Road East Associates

Westport, Connecticut

Architect: J.P. Franzen Associates Architects, PC

The historic former Westport Bank & Trust Company building, built in 1924, was converted for retail and office use. Two new storefront additions were added along with new electrical and mechanical systems, an elevator, stairwells and a roof. The Owners were very sensitive to the historic nature of the building, including the murals, which were protected for reuse after the restoration of the building was completed.

Historic Designation:

U.S. National Register of Historic Places

Award:

2006 Connecticut Trust for Historic Preservation, CT Preservation Award - Honorable Mention: The Built Environment (presented to David Adam Realty)

Jackson Chevrolet Company

Middletown, Connecticut

Architect: Andrew Robinson Architect

As part of General Motors' (GM) Facility Image Upgrade Program for dealerships nationwide, this existing facility was upgraded to enhance the customer experience. In collaboration with GM, Gensler, and Andrew Robinson Architects, this extensive design-build renovation was completed within GM's strict design guidelines. Improvements to this facility included a new exterior with updated signage, new modern showroom, and updated finishes throughout.

Lux Bond & Green

Westport, Connecticut

Architect: Charney Architects LLC

The commercial fit-out of this New England jeweler and Rolex retailer included extensive interior retrofitting, minor exterior renovations, and replacement of the MEP systems. The project consisted of demolition of existing casework, retrofit of basement storage and workroom, high-end finishes and lighting and a marble wall. A feature wall with custom walnut veneer wood paneling with hidden cabinetry was also fabricated and installed by Petra’s in-house millshop.

Patagonia

Westport, Connecticut

Architect: Frederick William Hoag Architect

The historic former Westport Bank & Trust Company building’s shell space was built out to accommodate Patagonia’s specific design criteria for a finished retail space. This fast-track tenant fit-out consisted of 6,700 sf on the main level for the high-end, privately held company. Keeping with the company’s commitment to causing the least harm to the environment in both its products and its facilities, environmentally friendly building methods were used, from demolition recycling and new material selections to stringent energy efficiency guidelines.

Historic Designation:

U.S. National Register of Historic Places

Ring's End Industries

Branford, Connecticut

Several showroom displays were created and constructed to showcase Ring's End's high quality windows and millwork in their new facility. The displays provide a dramatic environment where prospective clients and architects can view and select quality products in a variety of architectural settings.

University of New Haven, Campus Store

West Haven, Connecticut

Architect: Arbonies King Vlock, PC

Under an On-Call Services Agreement, this project involved a 1,120 sf one-story addition with a basement and associated renovations to the University's Campus Store. Renovations to the existing building included cosmetic improvements to the building's exterior, a new loading dock, installation of a sprinkler system and related site utility work. The six month long project was started during the spring semester while access and functionality was maintained for student services.

87 Post Road East Associates

Westport, Connecticut

Architect: J.P. Franzen Associates Architects, PC

The historic former Westport Bank & Trust Company building, built in 1924, was converted for retail and office use. Two new storefront additions were added along with new electrical and mechanical systems, an elevator, stairwells and a roof. The Owners were very sensitive to the historic nature of the building, including the murals, which were protected for reuse after the restoration of the building was completed.

Historic Designation:

U.S. National Register of Historic Places

Award:

2006 Connecticut Trust for Historic Preservation, CT Preservation Award - Honorable Mention: The Built Environment (presented to David Adam Realty)

Avon Old Farms School, Refectory Kitchen/Classroom Wing

Avon, Connecticut

Architects: Nelson Edwards Company Architects, LLC and The S/L/A/M Collaborative

Two inter-related projects were recently completed at the School’s Refectory Kitchen/Classroom Wing. Alterations and replacement-in-kind of the fully mortared slate and tile historic roof were based on the original 1930’s architectural design of Theodate Pope Riddle, Connecticut’s first female licensed architect. Important that the original aesthetic irregularity be maintained, the same materials and methodology were used. Renovations to the 1,800 sf Barnes Classroom included the addition of fenestrated dormers, structural reinforcement of the entire building frame, and new finishes, as well as modifications to the existing heating system and replacement of the existing cast iron radiators with a new high-end system.

Historic Designation:

Connecticut Register of Historic Places

First Congregational Church of Madison

Madison, Connecticut

Engineer: George Torello Engineers

In immediate need of a significant historical structural restoration, this Church underwent one of the largest renovations in its 300-year history. The ninety-seven foot tall steeple was restored in place to save time, money and historical value. Installation of massive structural members of wood and steel were required. The team also completed urgent reinforcement of the attic trusses and steeple framing, and, in the process, replaced the entire sanctuary ceiling and lighting system on a fast track schedule.

Historic Designation:

U.S. National Register of Historic Places, Madison Green Historic District

Awards:

2006 AGCCT Build Connecticut Award - Honorable Mention

2006 ABC Excellence in Construction Award - Certificate of Commendation

2006 CBC Project Team Award, Special Award for Historic Preservation

2005 CT-ABC Excellence in Construction Award

New Haven Historic Residence

New Haven, Connecticut

Architect: J.P. Franzen Associates Architects, PC

The renovation and new exterior additions of this historic home, constructed in the early 1900's, mimicked the existing structure without overwhelming the original structure in size and detail. It was also imperative that the original ornate interior woodwork be saved and restored as required. All of the newly crafted custom woodwork was fabricated in Petra's millshop including kitchen cabinets, a custom built library with raised cherry wall panels, a fireplace surrounded by cherry bookcases, and numerous pantry cabinets.

Historic Designation:

U.S. National Register of Historic Places, Prospect Hill Historic District

Orange Congregational Church

Orange, Connecticut

Architect: Jacunski Humes Architects, LLC

Built in 1810, the Church was faced with a growing community and a need to address ADA compliance requirements, current life safety standards and building codes. Space was added to enhance the common areas of the sanctuary and expand meeting rooms, as well as add a complete new church hall. Renovations included classroom space, the addition of an elevator between the basement and second floor, and the installation of central air conditioning. Key historic construction techniques were utilized to meet the historic district’s requirements. Petra’s millshop duplicated areas of distinctive woodworking and installed a beautifully crafted railing at the sanctuary balcony.

Historic Designation:

U.S. National Register of Historic Places, Orange Center Historic District

Pequot Library

Southport, Connecticut

Architect: Tappe Associates, Inc.

Originally constructed in 1887, the Pequot Library was slated for a complete renovation, including new mechanical and electrical systems and renovation of many historical architectural details. All areas of exposed wood were brought back to their original finish by matching the original wood finish colors. Built-in shelves were removed, revealing older architectural details. Petra’s in-house millshop recreated the ornate wood mantelpieces, along with mouldings and decorative architectural designs. Exterior work included roof re-flashing, gutter work, replacement of clay tiles, and repointing of leaking masonry.

Historic Designation:

U.S. National Register of Historic Places, Southport Historic District

Award:

2007 Connecticut Trust for Historic Preservation, CT Preservation Award - Award of Merit: The Built Environment

ROÌA Restaurant

New Haven, Connecticut

Architect: Patriquin Architects

This project was the complete renovation and restoration of an existing ballroom/ restaurant facility located within the historic Taft Hotel, built in 1912. The project included the repair and restoration of existing wall paneling, decorative plaster ceilings, and marble tile flooring. A new commercial kitchen, restaurant millwork, bars, seating, lighting, etc. were also installed. The millwork was custom fabricated to match the existing historic millwork.

Historic Designation:

U.S. National Register of Historic Places, Chapel Street Commercial Historic District

Saint Thomas More Chapel

New Haven, Connecticut

Architect: Knight Architecture LLC

Extensive renovations restored this 300-seat chapel, built in 1938, to its original character. Petra’s in-house millshop was heavily involved, including the restoration of 38 pews, custom millwork for the ceiling and walls, and fabrication of many custom pieces, including carvings and gold gilding. The new altar, ambo, prayer alcove, and baptistry all required significant coordination and the use of highly skilled craftspersons and intricate detailing. The project also included renovations to the adjacent Chaplain’s residence, built in 1960.

Years later Petra was directly selected to provide air conditioning for the 85-year old chapel and some of the contiguous office space. To accomplish this request, it was necessary to integrate thirteen air handling units and extensive ductwork into the vintage building. Petra’s millshop fabricated custom made ventilation grates to replicate the wood and color of the existing ventilation grates.

Awards:

2009 CBC Project Team Award

2009 CT-ABC Excellence in Construction Award, Special Jury

Saugatuck Congregational Church

Westport, Connecticut

Architect: J.P. Franzen Associates Architects, PC

Saugatuck Congregational Church undertook a comprehensive three-phase renovation to its educational and administrative areas. The project included renovations to the east wing for accessibility and other aesthetic and functional improvements, classrooms on the upper and lower levels, the corridor and stair areas, and the multi-purpose room and offices.

Somers Congregational Church

Somers, Connecticut

Architect: Clohessy Harris & Kaiser, LLC

The Church’s Meeting House, built in 1842, was lost to a tragic fire. The congregation wanted this new, three-story structure to replicate the look and feel of the old Meeting House while meeting the requirements of the current building code and improving specific aspects of the interior. A new set of monumental stairs provide access to the main level/second floor which houses the Sanctuary, a formal meeting room and separate conference room. A place of assembly, commercial kitchen, and mechanical and storage rooms are located on the first floor, which is partially under ground.

Historic Designation:

U.S. National Register of Historic Places, Somers Historic District

Southport Congregational Church

Southport, Connecticut

Engineer: George Torello Engineers

Built in 1875, this beautiful Victorian gothic style church had slowly deteriorated from time and the elements. Exploratory work and pre-construction was performed to investigate and solve a number of structural problems. Necessary structural repairs to the steeple, sanctuary and Fellowship Hall were completed.

Historic Designation:

U.S. National Register of Historic Places, Southport Historic District

St. George Church

Guilford, Connecticut

Architect: Paul B. Bailey Architect, LLC

After suffering a fire that left this landmark Church’s interior open to the elements, the roof needed immediate temporary repairs and subsequent permanent repairs. Temporary weather protection was installed and specific measures were taken to prevent further water damage. Special Tectum roof panels were fabricated to permanently replace the damaged panels and the existing plaster ceiling finish had to be replaced which required repairs to the existing plaster base coats and the design and installation of a new EIFS ceiling finish system.

Historic Designation:

U.S. National Register of Historic Places, Guilford Town Center Historic District

St. Joseph Church

Willimantic, Connecticut

Engineer: George Torello Engineers

This 1874 Gothic-style church had suffered structural damage that became evident due to a bow in the exterior walls of the building. Exploratory work and pre-construction was performed to address potential engineering solutions. A temporary elevated platform was erected across the length of the Church, at a height of thirty-five feet, to accommodate ceiling removal, truss reinforcement, installation of metal tie rods, and structural reinforcements. This allowed the Church to remain fully operational throughout the restoration project.

Historic Designation:

U.S. National Register of Historic Places, Prospect Hill Historic District

Stony Creek Waterfront Residence

Stony Creek, Connecticut

Architect: Nelson Denny Architecture

This project included an addition and renovation of an approximately 150-year old home overlooking the Thimble Islands. The design was intended to maximize space and modernize the home. Work consisted of reconstructing nearly the entire original historic structure due to its aged condition, coffered ceilings, custom moldings and hand carved details, all of which give the home a functional yet elegant atmosphere. The landscaping was completely renovated and incorporates a pink granite faced pool and beautiful flowering gardens.

Historic Designation:

U.S. National Register of Historic Places, Stony Creek/Thimble Islands Historic District

Union League Café

New Haven, Connecticut

Architect: Kenneth Boroson Architects, LLC

Located in the historic Sherman Building, built in 1860, this New Haven landmark required a substantial renovation to expand its facility. Second floor offices were converted into a dining area and a new commercial kitchen. The project also included the replacement of a historic grand mahogany staircase leading from the wood paneled main dining room to the new grand ballroom on the second floor. High level carpentry and finish work was required to integrate the redesigned staircase and new ballroom additions into the existing old world millwork. Special care was taken to minimize noise, dust and disruptive activity to allow the facility to remain fully operational throughout the duration of construction.

Historic Designation:

U.S. National Register of Historic Places, Chapel Street Commercial Historic District