Ellen Battell Stoeckel Barn
Norfolk, CT
Li · Saltzman Architects was retained for the Pre-Planning Study for the restoration and alteration of the Art Barn facility at the Yale Norfolk Summer School of Art. The Barn is located on the 78-acre Ellen Battell Stoeckel Estate and was donated to Yale University in 1939 for music and art education. The original 19th century, 15,000 square foot carriage house and stable was altered for its present use in 1940 by Architect Alfredo Taylor. The building accommodates Yale’s summer program, bringing together students, scholars, and artists to participate in a rigorous environment of artistic practice and learning. The Estate is part of the Norfolk Historic District.
The project encompasses a full exterior restoration of the historic wood and masonry hipped gabled building and a renovation of existing studios, classrooms, exhibition spaces, and offices to provide modern, flexible spaces for art and music functions. A 5,000 square foot wing is planned to accommodate new uses, including a lecture hall, classrooms, exhibit spaces, visiting artist studios, and a mechanical core. The conceptual plan integrates life safety, systems, and fire protection systems with options for extending the program to multi-season use. The plan for the expansion is designed to optimize natural light and significant views. The project emphasizes natural materials, sustainability measures, and provision of equal access. This includes a barrier-free accessible main entry, route of travel throughout the building with the integration of an elevator, and fully compliant restrooms.
