Historic Lighting Restoration - Yale Calhoun College
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Yale University recently commissioned a full-scale renovation of the historic Calhoun College, located in New Haven, Connecticut. Due to the work previously done for Yale University by Grand Light, and the high level of satisfaction with the restoration of numerous lighting fixtures including the Marquand Chapel chandeliers, Dwight Hall pendants, and the Divinity School chandelier, our team of artisans were called in to begin the extensive lighting restoration job.

Formally established in 1932 at the corner of College St. and Elm St. in New Haven, CT, Calhoun College and its original light fixtures have been serving students and facility alike for almost four generations. The fixtures, originally fabricated out of brass, copper, iron, and other metals and designed in the traditional fashion, the fixtures include large chandeliers, wall sconces, outdoor hanging lanterns, and outdoor wall mounted lanterns.

Restoration work began immediately by our highly talented and skilled team of experts who were truly excited to begin another project for Yale University. Many of the fixtures were restored to their original state and cleaned, re-lamped, and wired in accordance with UL standards.

Grand Light provided all of the necessary packaging and crating materials for the contractor as a protective measure, insuring that each piece was adequately packaged for transport to Grand Light's restoration facility.

Upon arrival, the various lighting fixtures and components were photographed and cataloged. The fixtures were completely disassembled and all components were inspected for mechanical deficiencies and repaired as required including the fabrication of doors, chandelier arms, outdoor brackets, and some new bead blasted glass panels.

Each brass chandelier and wall sconce components experienced a thorough four-part refinishing process, including hand polishing and application of a UV resistant protective coat, returned the glorious luster of these decorative fixture's 1932 debut.

The restoration process included removal and replacement of all original cloth insulated wiring and electrical components. The fixtures were rewired and tested in accordance with UL standards.

All components and partial assemblies were inspected during and after final assembly, prior to fabrication of crating for the large chandeliers and during the meticulous packaging of the remaining 131 fixtures.

Grand Light's restoration artisans completed the project in advance of the project requirements and were pleased to be an integral part of restoring Yale University's Calhoun College decorative lighting fixtures to their original state of splendor.