Special Projects

We are excited to share that construction of a much-needed year-round facility is well underway. While the "Big House" has served us well for the last 80 years, the need for its replacement is quite apparent to anyone who has visited the Camp recently. It is important that Camp Stella Maris has the infrastructure and facilities in place to meet the ever-changing needs of today's youth. And that means a new efficient main building is needed.

CSM has teamed up with Harrison Bridges Associates Architects to design the new structure. The new building is a combination of meeting, sleeping and restroom facilities. Its three stories take advantage of the existing hillside and beautiful lake views. Sleeping quarters are split between the lower and upper level, allowing for separation of male and female staff during the summer, and hosting of multiple retreat groups in the off season. The main level, while modest, features a covered porch, break-out meeting spaces, a residential kitchen and large meeting room, which will serve as the Camp's staff training site during the summer months and excellent meeting space for group programming the remainder of the year. Hallmarks of the current building are incorporated into the design - the horseblock, fireplace, a second-story porch and of course the beautiful stained-glass window of Mary, mother of Jesus, are part of the plan.

Flexibility and modesty were both key in the design of the structure. The new building is intended to meet the Camp's vision to be a year-round resource for children and families. While it will be smaller in stature than the current structure, at 9,500 square feet, it will still have a valuable presence on the campus.

Also planned is the creation of a courtyard to serve as a central gathering space for the entire camp community, not only during the summer months but year-round! The courtyard will be a signature element on CSM's 28-acre campus, positioned between The Wegman House, Peggy's Cafe, Bing's Barn (future home of the Leadership Center) and Chanler House. The size of a residential cul-de-sac, at 100 feet in diameter it will truly be the primary scene where children and adults alike will form friendships, work together as a team, take in beautiful lake views and connect with nature and with each other. Highly visible from East Lake Road and prominently located on the property, its open design, built-in seating areas and complementary landscaping will enhance the campus' warm and intimate setting.

Beautiful brick pavers will create the circular base. Two brick retaining walls will ease the steepness of the grade, making the area much more easily accessible, and will offer opportunities for seating with a one-of-a-kind view where campers and guests can gather in one another's company. Of course the original horseblock will be repositioned to face the courtyard, keeping a long-standing tradition alive and well. The courtyard will also offer handicap accessible parking for staff and visitors on an as-needed basis.

CSM wishes to extend heartfelt appreciation to Peggy Wegman and the Wegman Family Charitable Foundation for their pledge of one million dollars toward the new main building. Click here to learn more about their generous gift.

Special thanks also to Frank and Norma Riedman, whose generosity will support the courtyard. Click here to learn about their pledge.
Construction is expected to be completed by June 2007.