Prominent Southington Building Acquired By Local Redevelopment Firm

SOUTHINGTON, CT — A prominent building in Southington has been acquired by a local real estate development firm, about a year after the beloved family business there closed.

Luke Florian, founder and owner of Southington-based Freedom Property LLC, announced Friday, June 6, the acquisition of the former DePaolo Home Furnishings building at 83 Center St., Southington.

The downtown location was the home of the iconic, family-owned and operated home furnishings retail/showroom. The business had stayed in the same family for 99 years.

In January 2024, it was announced that the store was closing as the sister-brother team of Pamela and Val DePaolo retired, with the store closing later that spring.

Now, Florian said his development company is eying the 22,000-square-foot building to become "a dynamic, mixed-use gem in the heart of downtown Southington."

One key tenant his firm is seeking is a dining establishment for the building, according to Florian.

"We're seeking top-tier dining restaurants to anchor the first floor, while we craft boutique luxury apartments above," Florian wrote on Facebook.

Southington, like many communities, has seen multiple restaurants close due to challenges linked to the post-COVID-19 pandemic business environment, so a new restaurant is likely being seen as welcome news for Southington's economic development scene.

Florian even posted a video of the building's interior and exterior, showing what it has to offer.

Said Florian, "Get ready to witness this prime location come alive with style and sophistication."

To see a video Florian posted on social media of the site, click on this link.

From Jan. 4, 2024: 'Family-Run Furniture Store To Close In Southington: Reports'