Auburn House restorations to begin next month
Historic building to reopen for the fall 2017 semester with safety updates and better accessibility for campus events.
By Pam Gorsuch on January 30, 2017
Built in 1790, the Auburn House has history, architecture and charm—but not bathrooms that meet current building codes.
In February, TU will begin a restoration project to bring the Auburn House up to code and improve its accessibility for campus events. The project will include the installation of an elevator that will, for the first time, provide ADA access to the building’s basement and second level. The elevator and the addition of ADA-compliant bathrooms on the main, second and basement levels will allow the space to accommodate a wider array of events.
“The Auburn House has a special place in Towson University’s history and folklore,” said President Kim Schatzel. “We want to enhance and preserve this historic building so the whole campus can enjoy it.”
The restored building will keep the same look and feel but with safety improvements and repairs to offset years of use. The main staircase will be restored, and aging wood flooring will be replaced. Rooms will be repainted and faculty art will be hung on the walls alongside presidential portraits from the TU archives. A sprinkler system will be installed to bring the building in line with current fire codes.
The project will continue progress on the Auburn Pavilion updates completed in summer 2016, when foldable glass walls were installed to make the pavilion weather-resistant. New permanent bathrooms will replace the pavilion’s temporary trailer bathrooms. An updated heating and air conditioning system will be installed so the pavilion can be used year-round.
“The restored Auburn House will be a great asset for fundraising,” said Vice President for University Advancement Brian DeFilippis. “Our team looks forward to hosting alumni, donors and friends at events that raise awareness and philanthropic support for Towson University’s many outstanding programs and projects.”
Once renovated, the Auburn House will be able to accommodate dinner parties for up to 12 guests and receptions for up to 50 guests. Departments will be able to reserve the building through Event & Conference Services.
The project is expected to be complete for the fall 2017 semester. An open house is planned for the fall so the campus can tour the updated building.
This story is one of several related to President Kim Schatzel's priorities for Towson University: Strategic Plan Alignment