Students returning to Capen and Sessions houses in the fall will be surprised to see new wallpaper on their walls, a fresh coat of paint on the woodwork and more efficient lighting fixtures. Sessions underwent major reconstruction in the ’90s when firedoors were installed and an inner stairwell was added replacing a fire escape.
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Capen
Capen House, built in 1825 and once home to a law school, has 51 rooms, many of which overlook Capen Gardens.
Although the energy-efficient windows are relatively new, the casings will get a fresh coat of paint.
Fifteen of the rooms are getting new vinyl tile flooring.
All rooms will be wallpapered in a neutral beige paper.
Sessions
Sessions House, built in 1710, houses 42 students and is legendary for its history and lore, and even a rumored ghost.
The beautiful hardwood floors throughout that went untreated the past couple of years are being refinished.
All of the walls in the student rooms are in need of replastering before wallpaper is hung.
Many of the firedoors installed during the last renovation need major adjustments to ensure the safety of the students.
As Smith updates the houses, new and more efficient lighting is installed in all the student rooms.
Gary Hartwell is the project manager for six house renovations, the ITT roof and several other undertakings this summer.
