The new, sustainable and high-performance residence hall is designed to meet the needs of a growing university through provision of as many beds as possible, and through adaptability for future pandemics.
The 10-story residence hall will comfortably house 604 students within 162 dwelling units in around 20 varying types. Through creative use of the overlaying zoning, an entire floor of townhouses was created on the 10th/attic floors. The zoning allows for 10 floors above grade, and a floor is defined as” accessible by elevator,” but code allows for a walk-up unit (townhouse) with upstairs bedrooms.
Precautions for future pandemics are incorporated into the design through two steps. First of all, the apartments will have all-private bedrooms, providing effective self-quarantine. Secondly, a grab-and-go food distribution area, fitness facilities, a lounge, laundry facilities and a classroom are to be located in the basement. These measures will allow the building to be self-contained with on-campus students being able to participate in virtual learning without leaving the building. Uniquely, a three-story, atrium lobby will overlook the basement lounge at the elevated bridge entry.
A collegiate-Tudor exterior, containing brick and stone elements, will be consistent contextually with the established campus architectural language. The initial site selected for the project contained site constraints that inhibited the maximum number of rooms. ESa’s design team recommended the final chosen site that allows for an optimal number of beds.
Photos © Gabe Ford Photography
