Courtland Arms Building Brought Back to Life

The landmark Courtland Arms building in downtown New Britain reopened in December 2020 after more than two decades of abandonment followed by an $8 million renovation. PAC Group was hired as the Construction Manager for this multimillion dollar project for the nonprofit Chrysalis Center. The historic five-story building, originally built in 1910, sat vacant for 25 years before undergoing a complete renovation. The building was salvaged and the ornate 1920’s details have been restored. The hardwood floors, brass mailboxes and art deco flourishes were refreshed, and an art deco chandelier was installed in the lobby. The renovated building now includes 24 individual one-bedroom apartment units, four set aside for veterans and the rest are mixed income. “… A once eyesore to downtown is now a gem and asset,” said Sharon L. Castelli, CEO of Chrysalis Center, Inc and Chrysalis Center Real Estate Corporation.