LAKEVILLE, CT | 2024

Founded in 1891, the Hotchkiss School is a private co-ed boarding school in western Connecticut. The current library was constructed in 1953 following a generous gift from the Ford family, many of whom were alumni. The library was designed in Georgian style and featured oak bookcases, chandeliers, and quiet study alcoves.

“The NYPL chair was a clear favorite,

there wasn’t even a close second choice.”

By 2021, Cory Stevens, the new Director of the Edsel Ford Memorial Library, recognized it was time for an update. Stevens, who had long admired the craftsmanship of Thos. Moser furniture was instrumental in including the NYPL Branch Chair in the selection process, which aimed to modernize the space while preserving its timeless grandeur. The partnership between the Hotchkiss School and Thos. Moser led a renovation that balanced aesthetic appeal with functionality, restoring the room to its original purpose as a full-fledged reading room while ensuring the project was completed on time and within budget. Reflecting on the partnership with Thos. Moser, Stevens advises other institutions considering working with the company on similar projects to: “Do it! You’ll be so happy you did.”

Project Details

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