THE OPPORTUNITY

The project sponsor proposed to construct an 800-unit residential development on the grounds of a former corporate research facility and headquarters. New Jersey Freshwater Wetlands rules required consultation with the New Jersey Historic Preservation Office (NJHPO) prior to the former laboratories’ demolition.

THE CHALLENGE

The corporate complex, built-in 1963 for Lipton, was designed by Eggers & Higgins, a New York architectural firm established in 1937 known for their Neoclassical designs. NJHPO considered the former facility to be potentially eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places and required an intensive-level historic architectural survey to evaluate the property’s historical significance.

THE PS&S SOLUTION

PS&S conducted in-depth historical research and architectural analysis to determine the Lipton plant’s historical significance. Analysis indicated that despite the design firm’s name recognition, the plant was not representative of their work, nor were the actual designers particularly noteworthy. A comparison of the plant with contemporary examples also demonstrated that it was not an important example of its type. NJHPO concurred with these findings, clearing the way for the project to move forward.