Event Description

Harvard University’s Adams House, established in 1931, comprises six buildings with origins dating as early as 1760, beginning with the Apthorp House. By the turn of the 20th century, Apthorp House became part of the prestigious “Gold Coast” dormitories, as surrounding buildings—including Randolph Hall (1897), Westmorly Court (1898 & 1902), and Claverly Hall (1893)—were developed as private undergraduate accommodations. These buildings were considered exceptionally modern for their time, offering amenities such as running water, steam heat, electricity, and indoor plumbing. Russell Hall, added in 1932, further enhanced the complex with notable public spaces including the Gold Room, Lower and Upper Common Rooms, and dining hall.

The comprehensive, three-phase Adams House Renewal transformed all six buildings, introducing new and expanded spaces and amenities, improving accessibility, and enhancing sustainability, while carefully preserving and restoring significant historic fabric. Designed by Beyer Blinder Belle Architects and Planners, the 110,000-square-foot project accommodates 187 beds and was completed over a 26-month phased construction schedule. Recently completed Phase III focused on the full interior and exterior renovation and restoration of two of the four historic Adams Romantic Revival buildings: Westmorly Court (59,600 GSF) and Russell Hall (30,100 GSF). Key interventions included structural shoring of the historic envelope at Westmorly Court, integration of new vertical circulation systems within Russell Hall, and the adaptive reuse of Westmorly Court’s historic pool into a modern theater. The project also targeted LEED Gold certification and aligned with Harvard University’s goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 30%.

Presenters

Cameron Borgasano, Director of Undergraduate House Renewal Program, Harvard University

Glen Ryan, Operations Project Executive, Shawmut Design and Construction

Topic

Advancing Architecture