Honoring history, inspiring the future
Completed 2024
The Stone Houses at Dix Park are a unique part of Raleigh’s history, now beautifully restored to serve the community in new ways. Built in the 1920s, these three historic buildings—the Superintendent’s House, Physician’s House, and Gatekeeper’s Cottage—have been thoughtfully renovated thanks to the partnership between the Dix Park Conservancy, the City of Raleigh, and a generous $5 million gift from SECU and the SECU Foundation.
The project broke ground in January 2023 and was completed May 2024, transforming the Stone Houses into functional, welcoming spaces while preserving their historic charm.
Key Goals
Preserve the architectural integrity of the Stone Houses, including the original stone facades and distinctive mid-century design elements.
Enhance accessibility and sustainability features to meet modern standards.
Reimagine the spaces for community use, including event hosting, exhibitions, and office space.
Restoration Highlights
Historic Preservation
Every detail of the restoration was approached with care, from cleaning and repairing the original stonework to restoring unique features such as fireplaces, custom windows, and mid-century fixtures. The goal was to retain the spirit of the structures while ensuring their longevity.
Modern Enhancements
The interior of the Stone Houses was reimagined to support contemporary needs, with upgrades including:
ADA-compliant features for improved accessibility.
Energy-efficient systems to promote sustainability.
Flexible spaces suitable for meetings, workshops, and community events.
Grounds Improvements
The project extended beyond the buildings themselves, incorporating thoughtful landscaping to enhance the surrounding areas. This included new walkways, seating areas, and gardens designed for reflection and relaxation.
Each building has its own story, and the restoration honors their history while adapting them for modern use:
Superintendent’s House
Originally home to the superintendent of Dorothea Dix Hospital, this building now serves as the headquarters for the Dix Park Conservancy. It’s where the team works to bring the park’s vision to life.
Physician’s House
Once housing single doctors working at the hospital, the Physician’s House has been reimagined as a creative space. It now hosts the Dix Park Artists in Residence program and provides office space for City of Raleigh staff.
Gatekeeper’s Cottage
This charming cottage served as the home for the hospital’s gatekeeper. Today, it’s the park’s first-ever Visitor Center, offering guests a welcoming starting point to learn more about Dix Park and its offerings.
