
Vermont Department of Buildings and General Services, Waterbury, VT
Renewing a flood-damaged, historic complex to create a mixed-use campus
Serving as preservation architect to Freeman French Freeman on a multi-disciplinary team, Goody Clancy has designed the restoration and renewal of the historic Waterbury State Offices Complex. Originally built as a psychiatric hospital in 1890 and subsequently used for state agency offices, the complex had been severely damaged by flooding caused by Tropical Storm Irene in 2011.
In an initial, fast-track study phase, the team evaluated existing conditions, heritage value, potential for flood mitigation, and new green technologies to develop options for a state-of-the-art campus for state agencies. The final design involves the full restoration of the most historic buildings and creation of new, modern office spaces. All components are designed for maximum (500-year) flood protection and expandability for future expansion.
- The planned redevelopment comprises reuse, selective demolition, and new construction.
- The design includes the reinstallation of lost architectural details and elements such as the porte-cochère and chimneys on the Center Building.
- Restoration of historic core buildings includes roof restoration, masonry restoration, wood window replacement and restoration, and restoration of interior finishes.




