Work has begun on the restoration and expansion of the historic Bradley House, located at 113 Sturges Highway on the Westport-Fairfield line.
A protracted battle between preservationists and developers ended with the saving of Bradley House where work is now underway. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Dave Matlow for WestportNow.com
The circa 1800 home drew national attention last year when it was learned that the builder who had purchased the property planned to demolish it. (See WestportNow Nov. 14, 2005)
A protracted battle between the owner and concerned citizens ended amicably last fall with a compromise that preserves the original structure but allows for a substantial addition.
The owner of the Bradley House, Mark Iuraduri of I.K. Builders LLC, along with partner George Knapp and project manager Michael Horvath worked with noted local architect Jack Franzen to design a sympathetic expansion that minimally impacts the existing structure while incorporating everything that is important to today’s home buyer.
“This is a win-win situation for Westport and for the builder,” said Don Miro, chair of the Westport Historic District Commission. “I think it demonstrates that historic preservation can be achieved in a way that makes economic sense for developers.”
Miro, who is a builder, added, “Mark should be really be commended for his willingness to address the concerns of the community – he’s worked hard to do that and I think it shows the sense of responsibility that he feels. I hope this will encourage others.”
Eleanor Dickey, a Fairfield neighbor and president of the Coalition for the Preservation of the Bradley House, said, “the neighbors are excited that the project has secured the necessary approvals and is moving forward.
“We are grateful to the town government for their cooperation, and to Mark Iuraduri and Jack Franzen for making this solution possible. We are confident that Franzen’s design will fit in with the historic structure, and we look forward to seeing the finished product.”
Iuraduri, whose business is located in Westport, said he is pleased with the positive outcome.
“We’ve come up with a plan that enhances the neighborhood and honors Westport’s history – I’m very proud of that and I think Westporters will be too,” he said.
