Boston University's Kilachand Residence Hall Receives Paul & Niki Tsongas Award

Kilachand Residence Hall

Preservation Mass is pleased to announce that Boston University's Kilachand Residence Hall has received a 2025 Paul & Niki Tsongas Award.

Originally built in 1923 — and the first Sheraton Hotel — Kilachand Hall has a storied past, having served as a residential hotel before becoming part of BU’s campus in 1954.

Its transformation into the home of the Kilachand Honors College represents an exemplary balance of historic preservation, accessibility improvements, and energy efficiency, ensuring that this landmark continues to serve future generations. The meticulous restoration of Kilachand Hall’s masonry exterior was central to the project’s commitment to preservation. A comprehensive investigation revealed significant structural challenges, particularly at the building’s twelve corners, which required full reconstruction from the ground level to the parapet.

One of the most significant preservation efforts involved the reconstruction of a large cast stone ornament at the seventh floor, which had been protected by netting for years due to deterioration. The project successfully introduced comprehensive accessibility improvements while maintaining the historic character of the building, and achieved LEED Gold certification.