24 Hillhouse

New Haven, CT

A+B brought back the vibrancy and stature of 24 Hillhouse as a new home for the Institution for Social and Policy Studies. When registered as a National Historic Landmark in 1965 it was noted that 24 Hillhouse’s significance lies not only in being the work of one of New Haven’s most prominent architects, Henry Austin, but also in being home to one of the nation’s pioneers of modern geology and mineralogy, James Dwight Dana.

The historic character of the building was meticulously preserved through the careful reproduction, repair, and refinishing of many of its original architectural elements. Detailed crown moldings, paneled doors, finely crafted window casings, decorative fireplaces with ornate surrounds, and elaborate inlaid wood flooring were all restored to their former elegance. Stained and etched glass windows were expertly refurbished so their original color, texture and translucency animate the space with a sense of period authenticity. Each detail was approached with a commitment to historical accuracy and craftsmanship.

The ground floor houses a classroom, a welcoming lounge, and thoughtfully designed modern amenities – all tailored to meet the needs of visitors, faculty, staff and students – while honoring the building’s rich architectural history.

The original hall stair and its elegantly detailed balustrade were preserved in situ, a feat made possible by the creative integration of a new, code compliant egress stair, allowing the historic original stair to remain the functional and visual centerpiece of the renovated building.

New double glazed window sashes were custom-fabricated and installed within the original window frames, enhancing the building’s thermal performance while preserving the historic character of the original single-glazed design.

The existing, seldom-used exterior wheelchair lift, once positioned prominently on the front porch, detracted from the architectural clarity of the entrance. Its removal allowed for the full restoration of the porch to its original configuration, reviving the grand presence and balance of this historic facade.

Accessibility was thoughtfully reimagined with the addition of a gently sloping, fully compliant ramp discreetly integrated at the Trumbull Street entrance.

2024 HBRA of Connecticut HOBI Award, Best of Connecticut Rehab over 5,000 sf
2025 Connecticut Preservation Award, Honorable Mention

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