Posted onOctober 21, 2025|Comments Off on The Westport Project: Video Series Shows Compo Home Build (Mishaps And All)
A new home is replacing a teardown, in the Compo Beach neighborhood.
That’s not stop-the-presses news. It happens all the time.
But what makes this blog-worthy is the story behind the 2 new stories (plus a rooftop balcony).
The construction on Westport Avenue, between Soundview Drive and Bradley Street, has a name: the Westport Project.
It’s got a vision: a cutting-edge, sustainable, disaster-proof home that takes full advantage of the beach vibe and lifestyle.
It’s even got its own video documentary: a multi-part series showing off the neighborhood, the town, the building process and the people behind it.
It even shows the warts-and-all saga behind any construction project. (One episode included a behind-the-scenes look at delays.)
“The Westport Project” is a collaboration between Chris O’Dell and Eva Amurri.
Chris O’Dell and Eva Amurri, at the construction site.
He’s the founder of The O’Dell Group, the design-build collaborative known for custom jobs of all scales, from gut renovations to cosmetic facelifts. She’s the well-known influencer, designer and actor.
O’Dell is a 1995 Staples High School graduate, where he was a 3-sport athlete. He graduated from Michigan State University with a construction management degree, and has built and embedded his business in his home town.
Three project managers are Staples grads. O’Dell and the company have volunteered to build the new Compo playground, and sets for Bedford Middle School’s theater program; they sponsor sports teams too.
Amurri moved to Westport a decade ago, and features it often in her videos, social media posts and email blasts.
The pair — who met when O’Dell did a major renovation on Amurri’s Wright Street home — are stars of the “Westport Project” video series. They banter easily and humorously about the new home’s design, the old home’s demolition, the town, their lives and more.
Chris and Eva have an easy rapport.
But the real star is the house itself. Now that it is out of ground, it takes center stage.
This is no ordinary house. Built with ICF (insulated concrete form) and framed with steel, it is engineered to endure the elements. It’s fire-resistant, storm-resilient, and built for the next generation of smart, sustainable living.
The team is working to achieve near net zero energy consumption, powered by solar and supported by high-efficiency systems that minimize environmental impact.
Working at the Westport Avenue site.
Even the bones of the home are sustainable. Thirty percent of the concrete walls are made with recycled glass. The exterior siding will be crafted from rice husks, a renewable material with a handsome, modern finish.
“The Westport Project” viewers have enjoyed learning what goes into the design of a new home. They’ve seen what happens when weather delays the schedule. Episode 8 — the newest — gets into the nitty-gritty of cutting-edge Nadura concrete foam.
From now through spring, the series will show the highlights — and lowlights — of building a home, almost in real time.
The other star of the series is Westport itself. From the beach lifestyle — including traditions like the fireworks and trick-or-treating — to downtown shops and restaurants, Amurri and O’Dell showcase the town.
Many Westporters have tuned in. So have the actress’ fans, and others who are simply intrigued by a place they’ve only heard of (or who are hooked on design and construction videos).
O’Dell’s long connection to the town led him to the house. His former Staples classmate, realtor Meredith Luck Kamo, told him about the property.
He’s always loved the Compo neighborhood. He realized it had full views of the water and beach — and it could be the site of the very sustainable, disaster-proof home he’d wanted to build for a long time.
In Amurri, he had the perfect partner to help spread the word, in a fun, entertaining way.
“This series is about showing the process of building a local, waterfront home that is forging the path in sustainability, comfort and design,” O’Dell and Amurri say.
“We’re not cutting and polishing for a big reveal months after the fact. We invite viewers to watch it unfold in real time: the breakthroughs, the missteps and everything in between.” It appeals to both design lovers and construction buffs.
Chris O’Dell (left) and his crew, on site.
The pair look forward to upcoming episodes. They’re already planning to show their concerns about the solar panels.’
Will they be delivered, and be up and running by December 31? If not, the builders will lose federal tax credits (eliminated in the Big Beautiful Bill).
“06880”‘s Instagram Live series with 1st selectman candidates continues at noon tomorrow (Wednesday,).
Democratic Kevin Christie will be the guest. Republican-endorsed Don O’Day and Independent David Rosenwaks were previously interviewed.
Kevin Christie
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Also tomorrow: the Parks & Recreation Commission meets (Wednesday, 7:30 p.m., Town Hall auditorium) to discuss the Parks Master Plan and Longshore Capital Improvement Plan.
The Parks Master Plan presentation should synthesize some of the findings from the public engagement session 2 weeks ago at the Westport Library.
The Longshore Capital Improvement Plan will include the previously proposed maintenance shed — now a larger maintenance complex being discussed for numerous sites, including within Longshore itself.
It includes space for Longshore maintenance items and tools, plus staff work spaces and vehicle parking.
The current Longshore maintenance shed.
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Yesterday’s “Nor’easter” was nowhere near as bad as predicted.
There was a bit of rain, some stronger-than-usual winds, and — at its peak yesterday morning — only about 40 power outages.
But conditions were great for anyone who loves waves. Plus, photographers who love to shoot them.
Here are a few great images, both from Compo Beach:
Andy Flotto enjoys the waves … (Photo/Nancy Breakstone)
… along with Tristen Rycenga. The 8th graders are best friends, and surf together all along the East Coast. Yesterday they did it at their “home” beach. (Photo/Nancy Breakstone)
Bedford Acting Group — the famed Bedford Middle School program — is now called Bedford Theater Community.
The new name that honors the program’s long-standing tradition of inclusivity, collaboration and creativity. The new logo highlights the importance of collaboration among students, parents, BMS staff, and local community and supporters.
The rebrand coincides with the arrival of Rick Hribko, Bedford’s new theater director and acting teacher. He is building on its strong foundation of creativity, confidence-building, and community connection.
“Bedford Theater Community reflects not just who we are, but what we stand for: a place where every student has a voice, a role, and an opportunity to shine,” Hribko says.
“The BTC acts as a theatrical family who overcomes challenges and celebrates successes together. It’s about belonging, collaboration, and celebrating the power of storytelling together.”
His first production, this December, is “Annie, Jr.” It will be presented by the 6th grade class, with 7th and 8th grade student directors and stage crew mentors.
Claire Tiefenthaler works as a registered nurse at a local hospital, on a child and adolescent unit.
Andrew Colabella and friends are hosting a donations drive at 10 a.m. tomorrow (Wednesday) at the I-95 commuter parking lot, on the Sherwood Island Connector.
VFW Post 399 has become Westport’s comedy central.
The next night for affordable local laughs is Friday (October 17; doors open at 7 p.m., show at 8).
Chris Monty headlines, with Ellen Karis, Joe Pontillo and Dave Sheehan.
Tickets are $20 online or at the door. The VFW has a full bar, and a light food menu.
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But wait! There’s more!
The VFW is also chili central.
The day after the comedy show, the club hosts its annual Chili Cook-Off fundraiser (Saturday, October 18, 6 to 8 p.m.). American Legion Post 63 is the co-sponsor.
In addition to a wide variety of chili recipes, there’s a 50/50 raffle.
The fee is $25; all funds go to veterans and Westport’s first responders. For more information, email VFW399ct@gmail.com, or call 203-227-6796.
But you’re in luck. The Westport Library’s superb crew captured it all on video. Click here or below to view the entire event.
Up next: StartUp Westport’s first-ever Pitch Competition.
Set for November 20 (6:30 p.m., Westport Library), it’s the final round of a competition that began in May, with 77 applicants.
The 21 companies selected to participate gained valuable support through education, mentorship and coaching. Now just 5 remain:
Chroma Shield
Mirabelle Medical
Neuro Puffs
Nexa Tax
Wheel Price
Honorable Mention: Pro Patient Tech.
They’ll compete, “Shark Tank”-style, for a share of $25,000 in non-dilutive funding. The panel of Westport-based VC judges promises an inspiring, high-energy event.
One of Fairfield County’s favorite musicians — Chris Coogan — returns to Jazz at the Post this Thursday (October 16, VFW Post 399; shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner from 7).
The insanely talented jazz pianist — whose gigs range from accompanist to Gospel, plus choir director and bandleader — met Jazz at the Post maestro Greg Wall shortly after “the Jazz Rabbi” moved to Westport over 12 years ago. They realized they were cut from the same cloth. They share a deep spiritual attachment to American music, digging deep into its roots and extending outward from there.
On Monday, Phillip James Dodd treated the Y’s Women to a pictorial view of the houses of the popular HBO series, “The Gilded Age”: The Biltmore, The Elms and The Breakers.
The author, educator and architect noted that the tycoons garnered great wealth because they made their money before the introduction of the income tax.
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The goal of any good leader is to help those under him or her reach their full potential.
Just a few months into his new job, Erik Barbieri is doing exactly that.
Since taking in February, the Parks & Recreation director has brought a fresh eye to the sprawling department. From Longshore, Compo and other beaches to parks, programs and athletic fields, its work touches every Westporter.
Erik Barbieri, in his Parks & Rec office. (Photo/Dan Woog)
He’s also taken a close look at his staff, and how they’re deployed. With the recent retirements of 2 longtime, valued employees — deputy director Rick Giunta and customer services manager Barb Vornkahl — Barbieri saw a chance to move personnel to new positions.
And empower them to do more.
With several Parks & Rec projects as part of the town’s 10-year capital plan, Michael Giunta has been promoted from senior foreman to a new position: operations superintendent.
His role includes financial and administrative oversight, including revenue collection, reporting, insurance, bids and contracts.
Giunta will also coordinate with the town’s Finance, Human Resources and Public Works Department.
“He’s smart, and impressive,” Barbieri says.
Carmen Roda, the longtime operations manager, is the department’s new recreation superintendent. He’ll be in charge of aquatics, camps and programs.
Two recreation programmers — Max Robbins and Phoebe Koskinas — have been named program manager and program specialist, respectively. They’ll report to Roda.
Carmen Roda (Photo/Dan Woog)
Meanwhile, former administrative assistant Jamie Boone has been given more responsibility as office manager. She’ll take on a bit of Giunta and Vornkahl’s former responsibilities while overseeing all front office operations, like parking emblem sales and seasonal staff, along with social media, e-blasts, and the Memorial Day and Halloween parades.
One employee whose position won’t change is Nick Quatrano. Hired in May as parks superintendent, he’s made a “very impressive” mark already, Barbieri says.
“Everyone is on board,” the director says of his department. “There’s a lot of energy and buy-in. Everyone wants this department to be the best in the country. It’s my job to support them, and help them be successful.”
Barbieri notes that Giunta and Boone are Staples High School graduates, while Roda has served the town for many years, in both Parks & Rec and Westport PAL roles.
That continuity is important, Barbieri says.
So is rewarding them, and all employees, with new opportunities and challenges. He cites the support of 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, and town director of human resources Candice Holley with helping make the changes possible.
The Parks & Recreation Department “is in a great place,” Barbieri says. “We’re pushing to improve facilities and programs, and of course always listening to the public.”
He looks forward to the release of the final master plan, by the end of November.
Before then — tomorrow (Wednesday, October 8, 7:30 p.m., Town Hall) — there is a Board of Finance meeting.
Barbieri will make 3 requests. He’ll ask for $95,000 for architectural and engineering work on the Longshore golf course irrigation system, which is “failing, and getting worse every day.”
Also on tap: $104,420 for architectural and engineering work, and permitting, for bulkhead and seawall replacement at Longshore’s E.R. Strait Marina.
And there’s a need for $40,000, to make emergency repairs on the steps leading from the Westport Library to the Riverwalk.
As Barbieri discovered recently, that too falls under the Parks & Recreation purview.
“06880” readers skated around last week’s Photo Challenge.
John Maloney’s image showed an old-looking sign, headed “Playground Rules.” They included “Adult supervision required,” “No horseplay,” “Do not use when playground is wet,” and “No bicycles, roller skates or skateboards permitted.” (Click here to see.)
Because the sign looked timeworn, answers included the playgrounds behind Town Hall, and at Luciano Park.
Nope! Surprisingly, it hangs at the most popular playground in Westport: Compo Beach. Thousands of Westport parents, grandparents, nannies, au pairs and other caregivers are very familiar with the recently renovated spot.
But no one — except the very observant Andrew Colabella — knew that the sign is right there, in plain view, on the boardwalk near the swings and other playful paraphernalia.
So I guess not many people know the Compo Beach playground rules.
“Shoes are required.” “No pets allowed.”
And one that’s not on the list, but should be: “Have fun!”
Here is today’s Photo Challenge. If you know where in Westport you’d see this sad, lonely intersection, click “Comments” below.
(Photo/Jonathan Alloy)
(Every Sunday, “06880” hosts this Photo Challenge. We challenge you too to support your hyper-local blog. Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)
Hard to believe, but voting for town officials begins in just 11 days.
Here’s the early voting schedule, at the Town Hall auditorium:
DATE VOTING HOURS
Monday, October 20 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Tuesday, October 21 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Wednesday, October 22 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Thursday, October 23 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Friday, October 24 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Saturday, October 25 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Sunday, October 26 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Monday, October 27 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Tuesday, October 28 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Wednesday, October 29 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Thursday, October 30 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Friday, October 31 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Saturday, November 1 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Sunday, November 2 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
SAME DAY REGISTRATION: If you are new to Westport, or have not registered before.
To register, you must show identification that includes your name and Westport address (for example, a driver’s license, current utility bill, check or Social Security card).
You can register online at voterregistration.ct.gov, at the DMV, at the Registrars Office (Town Hall Room 107) or, mail your registration card by October 17.
If you miss this registration deadline, Westport offers registration every day at Town Hall in the auditorium during the early voting period (above). Registrants will be able to cast their ballot at that time.
Registration also available on Election Day (November 4) at the Town Hall auditorium from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. Voters can register and vote during that time. Be prepared to show proof of identity and residency.
“OK To Delay” — the group urging parents to protect middle schoolers from smartphones and social media — kicks off fall with a coffee-and-conversation event tomorrow (October 10, 10 a.m., Make Modern, 180 Post Road East). Lyfe Café will provide the light bites.
Speaking of Saugatuck: Most places, you’d pay big buck$ to hear a Rock & Roll Hall of Famer play.
In Westport, it’s just $15.
And you’ll be sitting about 5 feet away.
Mark Naftalin — a keyboardist with the original Paul Butterfield Blues Band — brings his magic to the VFW on November 1 (6:30 doors, 7:30 music).
He’ll be joined by Connecticut Blues Hall of Fame member Paul Gabriel, Connecticut Blues Challenge winner Mark Zaretsky, plus Nick Longo and Paul Opalach.
Pay in cash at the door. It doesn’t get more down home than that.
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Intensity has opened new platform tennis (paddle) courts.
They’ll celebrate with a free opening night party on October 17. There’s a 6 p.m. round robin (sign up here to play), then an exhibition match with local pros at 7:30.
The event includes food, drinks, a raffle and photos.
Intensity is just over the Norwalk line, at 490 Westport Avenue. Questions? Call 203-853-7727.
“Live from Lincoln Center” executive producer — and longtime Westport resident — Andrew Wilk addressed a large Senior Center crowd on Tuesday.
He detailed the creation of his award-winning PBS special “Simple Gifts.” The program was organized by the Y’s Men of Westport & Weston, whose officer John Brandt led the conversation.
Westport resident Louis D’Onofrio has just published “The Ultimate Short Story Collection.”
Some were inspired by Westport, and New England. They offer “reflections on current world events, and the comforting chaos of home…. (They) celebrate the power of perspective, the magic in the mundane, and the connections that quietly bind us all.” Click here to order, and for more information.
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The weather has finally turned autumnal.
But earlier this week — and for much of the fall — it’s felt positively summerish.
Nico Eisenberger was at Burying Hill Beach on Tuesday. He reports: “There was a good showing from the High Tide Club today.
“The only requirement to join is that you show up to swim at high tide, sometimes. No initiation. No fee. Everyone is free to do as they please. We’re open to new members!”
PS: The forecast today is sunny, with a high of 60.
Burying Hill High Tide Club. (Photo/Nico Eisenberger)
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Speaking of the beach (and summer): The Parks & Recreation Department has announced a winner for its mural painting contest.
Luke Bernier’s work was selected. He is a junior at Staples High.
It will be painted on the side of the Hook’d/Bluestone concession building, facing west.
Right now, it’s a big, empty space. Here’s what it will look like next year:
Very cool, Luke. Congratulatons!
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The Suzuki School is more than just violins.
Their next concert (October 24, 7 p.m.) features jazz pianist/cellist Julian Shively and vocalist Emma McDonald. The evening blends jazz, R&B and neo-soul. click here for tickets, and more information.
Julian Shively and Emma McDonald.
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Westport Police made 3 custodial arrests between October 1 and 7.
A 19-year-old Stamford woman was charged with larceny of a motor vehicle, conspiracy to commit larceny of a motor vehicle, operating a motor vehicle without a license and failure to drive in the proper lane, following a crash on Beachside Avenue. The vehicle had been stolen from the Greens Farms railroad station, with the key fob left inside. A juvenile was also charged with larceny and conspiracy to commit larceny, and released in the custody of a parent.
A 22-year-old Waterbury man was charged with identity theft and conspiracy to commit larceny, following a complaint that 2 checks had been intercepted from the mail, and altered. He was held on a $25,000 bond.
A 45-year-old Westport man was charged with disorderly conduct, following a complaint of a verbal argument that escalated into physical contact.
Westport Police also issued these citations:
Speeding in a school zone: 2 citations
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 2
Passing a standing school bus: 1
Distracted driving: 1
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 1
Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
Unsafe backing: 1
Failure to obey traffic control signals: 1
Improper use of markers: 1
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Lee Wrubel died at his Westport home on Tuesday, surrounded by his wife and children. He was 61.
The Staten Island native earned a BA from Lafayette College, an MD/MPH from Tufts University, an MBA from Columbia University, and a Certificate in Leadership Coaching from Georgetown University.
His professional life was dedicated to transforming healthcare, most notably with Foundation Medical Partners, a venture firm he co-founded with the Cleveland Clinic, and most recently as global co-leader of Egon Zehnder’s Global Healthcare Research and Development practice.
His family says, “Lee valued intellectual curiosity, creating and collecting photography, and a good espresso. His happiest times were spent with his family, whether walking to Compo Beach, traveling the globe, or engaging in conversation over a great meal, by the fireplace, or on the back patio. He was their rock and will continue to be their north star.”
Dr. Wrubel is survived by his wife of 33 years Michele; children Alec (Molly Kandarian) of Los Angeles and Brooke of New York, mother Evelyn, and his brothers Eric and Austin. He was predeceased by his father George.
Funeral services will be held at The Community Synagogue in Westport tomorrow (Friday, October 10, 2 p.m. Interment will be private.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center or The Community Synagogue.
Lee Wrubel
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Another day, another “Westport … Naturally” spider photo.
Fernando Silva writes: “There are 3 orb-weavers below our climbing hydrangea with huge, incredible webs. This cross orb-weaver posed so nicely at the corner of its web, camouflaged in a brittle bloom, I had to send it in.
“Spiders won’t win traditional beauty contests anytime soon. But considering Halloween is around the corner, it felt appropriate.”
And finally … Chris Dreja died recently in London. He was 78.
A rhythm and bass guitarist, and founding member of the Yardbirds, he was not as well known as other members of the group, like Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck and Jimmy Page.
But he was here in Westport in October of 1966, when the Yardbirds gave a memorable concert at Staples High School. Here’s a story about that show. Click below for some of the songs he played on.
(Early voting begins soon — as “06880” notes above. We’ll continue to cover all the Westport races closely. That’s the way we roll. But we can’t do it without you. Please click here to support us. Thanks!)
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