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Renovated Litchfield Hall ready to welcome resident students

DANBURY, CONN. — After one year and nearly $15 million invested, the new Litchfield Hall is ready to open its doors to students when the fall semester begins later this month. The 53,600 sq. ft. building, originally constructed in the 1960s, has been rendered “like new” from the inside out — with a new roof, exterior walls and windows; and updates to the landscaping, living quarters, bathrooms and common areas.

Significant interior updates include new resident room and common area furnishings, new air-conditioned lounges on each floor, new restroom facilities on all floors, and the creation of individual and group study rooms on the ground floor.

From a purely visual standpoint, Litchfield’s once dark “open square” design is now flooded with natural light from both the center courtyard and renovated lounges that feature curtain walls constructed of structural aluminum and glass. A visitor to the 5,000 sq. ft. handicapped-accessible courtyard can literally see through the building and out the lounge windows. The welcoming environment enables residents to expand their living environment from the inside to the outside, with new features including a pergola, outdoor furnishings and integrated lighting.

Reducing energy consumption and improving occupant safety were renovation priorities. New roofing, windows and exterior walls now bring the building to current efficiency standards. The complete replacement of the fire alarm system and fire sprinkler system, and the addition of integrated door security hardware and security cameras utilize technology solutions to enhance student safety.

The 229 student living quarters each received new paint, flooring, wardrobes and wood furniture. Additionally, all of the building’s infrastructure systems have been upgraded or replaced — including wireless communications, air handling and heating systems, plumbing and electrical distribution systems. Previous concerns regarding temperature control issues, poorly functioning restrooms and showers, and a failing lock and door system have been resolved as part of this significant renovation.

Nine completely renovated bathrooms offer flexibility to meet the needs of a changing student population and can be designated as male or female facilities based on the number of students of each gender residing in the building at the time.

In addition to the interior enhancements, the exterior entranceway received a makeover, all the landscaping in the courtyard and around the perimeter of the building was replaced, and a handicapped-accessible gazebo has been added to the courtyard space.

After a year of being vacant, Western’s new Litchfield Hall is ready to welcome students home.

 

 

Western Connecticut State University offers outstanding faculty in a range of quality academic programs. Our diverse university community provides students an enriching and supportive environment that takes advantage of the unique cultural offerings of Western Connecticut and New York. Our vision: To be an affordable public university with the characteristics of New England’s best small private universities.