The Queen Anne Victorian Inn was designed by C.F. Wooding Company of Wallingford in 1891. It contains guest suites, an innkeeper’s apartment, a spacious dining room, and several sitting rooms. edmSTUDIO provided architectural services to rehabilitate and modernize the building.
The goal of the project was to preserve the 7,500 SF Inn’s historical function while incorporating modern upgrades. The first floor’s original design was maintained and enhanced, and second-floor guest suites were minimally altered except for ADA accessibility upgrades. The third floor was reconfigured to house three guest suites and revitalized the innkeeper’s apartment. A complete overhaul of the building systems resulted in the building now being fully electric in support of Choate’s sustainability goals.
Exterior and interior trims were preserved and extended into a new 3,000 SF addition that features a new entrance. Key elements, such as the brownstone base and fish scale siding, were seamlessly integrated, blending old and new. Detailing from the original front entry, including reminiscent columns and a highlighted roof structure, was also mirrored in the addition.
Improvements were made to the building’s thermal envelope, life safety, and mechanical systems while retaining their original appearance. An elevator for accessibility was introduced thoughtfully to avoid competing with the original building. These upgrades were discreetly integrated into the existing fabric to remain hidden from the average user.
The project exemplifies a balanced approach to preservation and modernization, ensuring the Inn’s legacy continues while meeting contemporary standards and supporting sustainability goals.
Interior design was provided by CAMA.
