The adaptive reuse of the 45,000-square-foot, late-nineteenth-century former Plymouth Congregational church and parish house (c. 1899), located in New Haven’s historic Dwight Street neighborhood, has enabled hospital growth and the ability for the Yale New Haven Health system to provide greater access to medical treatments for the community it serves. 

The existing structure, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, was originally designed by architect William H. Allen. It is a fine example of Romanesque Revival architecture. The 6-story building consists of two main sections separated by a sky-lit atrium. It features original ornate masonry details, rusticated brownstone, a slate gable roof anchored by two square towers, and a turreted belfry topped with a polygonal roof.

Redesign of the interior of the building required a full renovation in order to meet the needs of the following medical specialties: rehabilitation services (occupational therapy, physical therapy, and speech-language pathology), heart and vascular services, lung life pulmonary rehabilitation services, and occupational medicine and wellness services. The need to clearly identify the primary entrance to the building was addressed by creating a new, custom-fabricated glass and brushed steel canopy over the recessed entry; and by adding bronze railings; stairs and an ADA-compliant ramp – both made from local Stony Creek granite. 

A new lobby space welcomes visitors and features horizontal wood cladding – juxtaposed against the existing masonry walls. The reception area adheres to all hospital design standards and includes cherry millwork and easy-to-maintain solid surfacing. The existing atrium, with a bluestone patio and live plantings, received a new glass skylight. New elevators, doors, interior finishes, casework, and lighting further enhance the reconfigured interior. Exterior modifications included full window and roof replacement, as well as masonry cleaning and restoration. Additionally, parking was reconfigured and new site lighting was installed.