Originally a private community center, the Dixwell Community Center (known locally as the Q House) closed in 2003 due to lack of funding. In 2012, the City of New Haven purchased the property, and in 2013, contracted local architect Zared Enterprises to conduct a feasibility study, partially funded by the State of Connecticut, to determine the best route to reestablish the Q House.

The conclusion:  Complete demolition and new construction of a larger facility on the same site could be accomplished in a more cost-effective manner than renovation.

Demolition of the existing 1969 structure was recommended due to water damage, the presence of mold, and non-compliance with current building codes.

The study further indicated that the new community center could also encompass several local entities: a branch of the New Haven Free Public Library, a senior center and a private health center.

In 2014, the Team of Zared Enterprises and Kenneth Boroson Architects was selected from among ten proposing firms to design the new Q House. Our team worked closely with the Q House Advisory Board, Senior Center building committee, Stetson Library, and the City of New Haven to arrive at a final program.

The design focuses on utilizing ancestral patterns, textures and colors. Regina Winters, Principal of Zared, researched African symbols which were sculpted into the entrance pilasters on three facades. In 2016, after the unfortunate passing of Regina, our firm completed the building design and construction administration.

The building totals approximately 53,000 sf and includes four Q House “partners” - the senior center, the teen center, the Stetson Library, and the Cornell Scott Hill Health Center.

The community center spaces include a fitness center, full-court gymnasium, teen lounge, recording studio, dance studio, art classroom, and a museum that houses a permanent exhibit.

In 2023, Q House received the Community Impact Award from CREW CT at the Annual Blue Ribbon Real Estate Awards ceremony.