An historic restoration creates an accessible future.
Marsh Hall is a registered national historic landmark built in 1878 and the first facility designated for Yale’s School of Forestry. Typical of old mansions converted to academic use, the building required a comprehensive renovation to address inadequate safety and accessibility conditions.
Milestone worked with Christopher Williams Architects on a multi-phased project that featured the creation of a bluestone walkway that makes the ground floor wheelchair accessible. A gently sloping ramp complemented by a rock wall follows a radius through a landscaped garden and leads to a portico and building entrance. Special care kept the radius level on the approaching incline. The wall, which subtly disappears into the ground, is an extra precaution should wheels slip or lose control on the climb toward the entry.
Interior work included patching and painting stucco walls, modernizing a kitchenette, new lighting and audio-visual equipment for classroom/public spaces and accessibility updates. Balustrades on the porch and widow’s walk maintained their historic character with meticulous repairs and replication through epoxy molds and custom millwork.
MARSH HALL
LOCATION
New Haven, CT
OWNER
Yale University
DELIVERY METHOD
General Contracting
ARCHITECT
Christopher Williams Architects
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