Hollins University has received a $20,000 gift from the Helen S. and Charles G. Patterson, Jr. Charitable Foundation Trust to support the restoration of one of its historic structures.
The funds will go toward a $550,000 project to refurbish and update Rath Haus, which currently houses Hollins’ information technology offices, to serve as a year-round residence for up to 13 students. Renovation of the two-story Colonial Revival building, which was built in 1907, will include converting the space for residential use (bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchen, and furniture), a new residential HVAC system, electrical upgrades, fire safety/sprinkler systems, a new roof, replacement of siding and windows, and making the building ADA accessible.
“These improvements will bring new life and vitality to this historic home,” said Hollins President Nancy Gray.
The restoration is the next step in Hollins’ initiative to preserve the nine so-called “Hill Houses” on campus. These buildings, constructed between 1885 and 1929, make up a charming neighborhood of late 19th and early 20th century residential architecture and have served a variety of purposes over the years, including student, faculty and staff residences, offices, classrooms, and even the home of Hollins’ presidents. Renovations to Rose Hill, built in 1911, were completed this summer, and the structure now houses ten students. The total cost of restoring the Hill Houses is $3 million.
The Helen S. and Charles G. Patterson, Jr. Charitable Foundation Trust was established in 1997. The Pattersons were lifelong residents of Virginia.
