Chapel Haven

New Haven, CT





Location: New Haven, CT
Architect: The S/L/A/M Collaborative
Size: 77,700 sf
Cost: $33.8 million
Scope of Services: New Construction
Services: MEP/FP
Lighting
Sustainable Features: Dedicated Outside Air
Generator
Water Cooled VRF

Chapel Haven is a specialized residential and educational community designed to support adults (18+) with cognitive and developmental disabilities. This multi-phased campus expansion prioritizes health, safety, and independent living by integrating critical wellness infrastructure across its new Assisted Living, Independent Living, and Transitional Programs for individuals with Autism and Asperger’s Syndrome. The addition of a new Welcome Center and community hub with retail space also promotes social health and community engagement.

Working under an accelerated design-build schedule, CES provided full MEP/FP engineering services tailored to the unique healthcare needs of the population served. Systems were designed to prioritize reliability, comfort, and energy efficiency, and include gas-fired condensing boilers, VRF cooling with dedicated outdoor air systems, and a 300 kW backup generator serving both buildings. Water-cooled VRF systems support future cogeneration for resilient heating and power. Fire protection and LED lighting systems ensure safety and sustainable operation throughout the facility.

This project won the 2022 Design-Build Institute of America New England Region Gold Award.