Interview with Robin Kencel, Greenwich Historical Society Landmarks Program

The Greenwich Historical Society is looking for nominations for its annual Landmark Recognition Program.

Established more than 25 years ago, the program is committed to celebrating the town’s fine architectural heritage as a means to encourage preservation.

1st row Anne Walker, Peter Pennoyer Architects. 2nd 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; Michael Biondo, Michael Biondo Photography.

Nearly 300 town buildings, including homes, commercial buildings and structures, have been recognized with Landmark plaques since the program was established in 1987.

“This is an excellent opportunity for Greenwich residents to participate in the Historical Society’s preservation efforts which help make our town so special,” said Robin Kencel, newly appointed chairperson of the Landmark Recognition Program in a statement.

“We’re looking for a variety of styles, sizes and periods to reflect Greenwich’s unique cultural heritage,” Kencel continued.

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.

Selection Committee Features top Architects and Historians Architects Ira Grandberg and Amanda Martocchio, art historians John Dixon and Anne Walker, and architectural photographer Michael Biondo will select four structures to receive the 2014 Plaque. Presentations will be made at a reception at the Greenwich Country Club on Sunday, April 26.

Applications for nominating homes and buildings are available by contacting Christopher
Shields, archivist, at The Greenwich Historical Society at [email protected] or by calling (203) 869-6899, Ext 23. The deadline for nominations is November 8th

Each plaqued property is professionally researched, documented and preserved in the Historical Society’s Archive. Over the years, these documents have been popular with homeowners, researchers and scholars, as well as architects, builders and real estate professionals.

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

The Landmark Recognition Program was begun in 1987 by the Greenwich Historical Society. Originally known as “Signs of the Times,” its purpose is to inspire the public to connect personally with Greenwich’s past through the recognition of architecturally noteworthy structures and thereby to encourage their preservation. Nearly 300 homes, commercial buildings and sites have been recognized with plaques for depicting the town’s rich cultural heritage since the program’s inception.

Email news tips to Greenwich Free Press editor [email protected]
Like us on Facebook