Zoning & Density in Hartford's West End

On Thursday, October 29th, the West End Civic Association (WECA) Planning & Zoning Committee met to begin a conversation about many of the zoning-related issues that the neighborhood found contentious during the past year. The agenda listed density as the main topic, with specific mention of converting existing properties to include more approved units, new condo and multi-unit developments, fairness issues around illegal rentals, accessory dwelling units, the financial impact of zoning decisions on homeowners,

An Evening with David Nyberg

On Thursday, October 15, 2009 (tomorrow evening), real estate developer David Nyberg will be hosting a social hour, giving site tours of two Downtown Hartford projects, and participating in a roundtable discussion. I am coordinating the event through HYPE, and would like to extend an invitation to those outside of the HYPE membership to join us. Please RSVP to me (Kyle Bergquist) to register if you are interested in attending; seating is limited. Mr. Nyberg

Questionable Upgrades: Pocket Drawers

Have you seen the commercial for the Pocket Drawer? I look forward to watching each time it comes through the ad rotation on HGTV. For those not familiar with the product, it is basically a drawer mounted into the wall. From the company website, “it is 14 inches wide by 6 inches high by almost 5 inches deep.” The idea is perfect for marketing – it fills a plausible need (can take advantage of unused

Active Development in Downtown Hartford

Below are recent pictures of two big development projects in Downtown Hartford. The first is the steel structure of the Front Street District, across Columbus Boulevard from the Convention Center. It’s exciting to see the project underway after years of delays and other challenges. The second is the Broadcast House being torn down to make room for the AI Technology Center on the corner of Columbus Boulevard and State Street. Demolition began last week and

Saving a West End Home: Project Round-Up

Note: This post continues the Saving a West End Home Series. The West End Home has a round turret as its front, left corner. Although round turrets are not uncommon in the neighborhood, the feature gives the property a little something extra – something special. From the outside, the conical roofline immediately draws the eye. For me, the effect is to mask the true size of the building. It makes the home feel more intimate