The Elihu Club is the fourth oldest senior society at New Haven’s Yale University. Its historic Federal-style building dates to the early 1800s. Years of deferred maintenance resulted in serious deterioration, and the building was no longer in compliance with code requirements. Issues included an obsolete kitchen, a dangerous electrical system, and lack of a fire alarm system. Many of the antique furnishings were worn and tattered.

Our program restored the elegance of this magnificent building and retained and enhanced the profound sense of history that exists in the club. Renovations included updating the infrastructure, installing a new commercial kitchen and restoring the interior, including many of the furnishings. 

Paint colors were selected to complement new and existing carpets. Many historically significant items were painstakingly repaired, including wall sconces, railings, and lampshades, as well as the fringe on original Persian rugs.

Although changes were subtle, they were significant. In the club’s meeting room, an original red wool carpet had faded to an unpleasant orange, as had the velvet drapes. Kenneth Boroson Architects custom designed a new carpet and drapes, refinished the wood floor, and matched original historic paint colors. Concealing new mechanical systems behind panels and under window seating assured that upgrades remained inconspicuous.