Hales Cottage at CHNO
Hales Cottage, a historic landmark within the Children’s Hospital New Orleans campus, is repurposed into a vibrant community space, while preserving the architectural integrity and cultural significance of the cottage. The endeavor seeks to honor the legacy of Hales Cottage and its connection to Uptown New Orleans’ rich heritage.
LOCATION
SIZE
YEAR OF COMPLETION
SERVICES
COLLABORATORS
AWARDS
Hales Cottage stands as one of the oldest surviving structures in Uptown New Orleans, with roots tracing back to the late 1700s. Originally part of Jean Étienne de Boré’s plantation, it witnessed pivotal moments in Louisiana’s history, including the birth of the state’s sugar cane industry. The cottage’s varied past, from plantation dwelling to federal property, underscores its resilience and enduring presence as a structural landmark.
Existing conditions of Hales Cottage.
The project entails meticulous attention to detail, with a focus on returning the cottage to its 1850s appearance while integrating modern amenities for community use. From structural repairs to interior design, every aspect of the renovation process is guided by a commitment to honoring the cottage’s architectural heritage.
The entire cottage was repositioned by 45 degrees to enhance access, fortifying its structure and reinforcing the foundation, and, although the cottage had to be elevated, the original fireplaces were kept. The chimneys had to be removed beneath the newly elevated floor and repositioned with added support. Because the barge board walls and longleaf pine diagonal joists in the walls had deteriorated, they were painstakingly restabilize and salvaged. Some of the walls were preserved completely behind plexiglass, creating a museum-like display for visitors. Overall, although the building had a lot of water damage and active termites in the roof, the inherent quality of the building’s structure, including much of the siding, flooring, columns, railing, porch, and interior ceiling, was restored to its original state through a dedicated labor of affection.
Community engagement is a cornerstone of the project. Children’s Hospital actively collaborates with local stakeholders, historians, and preservationists to ensure that the revitalized space serves the needs of the surrounding community. The process was completed in collaboration with the Preservation Resource Center of New Orleans and the Tulane University School of Architecture, both of whom surveyed the property and its existing conditions. Public input sessions, educational programs, and historical tours provide opportunities for residents to connect with the cottage’s past and shape its future role as a community hub.
Upon completion, Hales Cottage emerged as more than just a restored historic structure—it is a vibrant gathering place for patients, families, hospital staff, and neighbors alike. With its new identity as a coffee shop, the cottage offers a welcoming environment where individuals can convene, reflect, and forge connections. Through this project, Children’s Hospital reaffirms its commitment to preserving Uptown New Orleans’ cultural heritage while fostering a sense of belonging within the community.