As part of its mission to enhance the student experience, MIT constructed a new undergraduate residence hall on the site of the West Garage parking facility (W45). As noted by Chancellor Cynthia Barnhart, a central goal for this residence is to “further unlock the potential of the Vassar corridor” and place more students close to the heart of campus.

The residence hall’s design (influenced by the Architectural Principles Document developed by a team of MIT students, faculty heads of house, and staff) includes rooms arranged in “clusters” of 35-38 students in a mix of singles and doubles with shared community spaces such as lounges and study rooms. Throughout the building, stairways have been located and designed to encourage communication and travel between the clusters. Residents also enjoy larger shared community spaces such as study lounges, music rooms, a private courtyard, and other flexible spaces. A dining facility on the first floor, open to the community, includes a kitchen area where students have the opportunity to cook for themselves. The project adds 450 new dormitory beds and was completed in Fall 2020.

Outside the building, a tree-filled entry courtyard and a plaza area provide green space, inviting benches, and gathering opportunities.

In addition to enhancing the student life experience at MIT, the new residence provides MIT with flexibility and capacity as it continues with its comprehensive renewal of campus housing.