Living-learning, community and cultural center
Chicopee, MA
Historic Gaylord Mansion, originally built in the 1870s by local businessman and civic leader Emerson Gaylord, serves as the gateway to Elms College.
Western Builders was commissioned to restore the aged mansion to its former glory in order to give it a new and vibrant purpose. Previously used as faculty offices, the newly transformed building has become the Living-Learning, Community and Cultural Center which is located on the 1st floor and includes a graduate student housing on the second and third floors. The newly restored building is ADA compliant and offers housing for 11 students, in addition to a full kitchen and laundry facilities.
The full abatement and renovation of this French Second Empire home began in Summer 2019. Many facets of the original design were critical to preserve, and no compromises were being made in the intent, materiality, and design while still meeting the tight project schedule and budget requirements.
Western Builders was proud to lead this preservation project that breaths fresh life and stately class back into an important architectural “cornerstone” of the college.
