Dickinson college chose to rehabilitate their historic 1890’s Presidents House into a dedicated alumni and event space needed to support campus activities. The design is forward-looking while reflective of the building’s historic significance in Carlisle. In-kind repairs were combined with new modern elements while maintaining the elegance of its character. Throughout the entire rehabilitation, the historic nature of the residence was retained and its distinctive features, finishes, and craftsmanship were preserved.

Dickinson was the first college established in the new United States of America in 1783. The 1.52-acre site was refurbished per Dickinson’s standards to complement the historic vernacular of the campus. Walking paths were introduced connecting the adjacent college green and West Street. Path lighting was added to create a sense of arrival to the College, as this historic building is the first structure defining the beginning of the college campus in downtown Carlisle. Conversational islands were also added along the paths to strengthen the college’s tradition of red Adirondack chairs located throughout the campus, fostering a community environment.

Introducing ADA access for all visitors at the main entrance while maintaining the historic character was the project’s intrinsic challenge. The entrance topography was elevated for a single curved poured-in-place concrete ramp that cantilevers off 3 stone piers, which floats seamlessly into the existing historical architecture.

The interiors were restored to conditions similar to the original while improving their functionality. The grand staircase was restored to its original grandeur. All the pickets were removed, and longer replicas were installed to meet code requirements. The front porch was transformed into a new vestibule utilizing mullion-less glass to achieve energy savings while maintaining the existing columns and brick veneer of the historic façade. An elevator was also installed, connecting the lower and second floors and an accessible guestroom en suite was introduced.

The new contemporary gathering spaces required flexible design for multi-use meeting rooms, staff offices and tech center suites, which are all equipped with advanced interactive technology. The five bedrooms rooms were renovated into luxurious guest rooms with en suite bathrooms providing an elegant “bed and breakfast experience” for all guests.