'Community Commons' Project to Enhance Dining Hall and Overall Campus Experience

Lunchtime - once called the afternoon meal - has a storied history at Hamden Hall, dating back to the hot, family-style meals that were served each day at noon in the former Cushing Dining Hall.

And like the dining room or kitchen in a home, Lender Refectory, which was built during the 1988-1989 school year, has long served as a social hub for our Hamden Hall community.

A new two-phase project, called Community Commons, will enhance our dining hall and add 2,000-square-feet as well as a renovation of the kitchen facilities. The new common area will include a reception area for special events and functions, and a beautifully paved terrace in front will provide outdoor dining options as well as seating areas.

“The new renovations will not only provide our students with a safer and more enjoyable dining experience, but will also create a new space for special events celebrating our exceptional school community,” said Head of School Bob Izzo.

With brick pavers planned for the entryway and outdoor terrace, the Hamden Hall community will be invited to purchase personally engraved bricks. Bricks will have three lines of type available to honor or memorialize loved ones, teachers, alumni classes, and more. Click here to learn more about the Community Commons Brick Campaign.

The Senior Parent Legacy Fund is also committed to the project. The terrace will be dedicated to the Class of 2021, and an engraved plaque celebrating our 2021 seniors will be a standout feature. Click here to learn more about the Senior Parent Legacy Fund.

Currently, Lender Refectory has 4,000-square-feet of dining space, which will be updated and modernized to reflect current building design features. Construction on the new dining space is planned for summer 2021.

“Between the existing space and the new space, the new 6,000-square-foot Community Commons will serve our student and community's needs for many years to come,” said Mr. Izzo.