Vassar Street Residence Hall

The new Vassar Street Residence Hall provides MIT with flexibility and capacity as it expands campus housing and brings students closer to the core of the urban campus. The building enhances student life through comfortable living and community spaces, focuses on wellness, social interaction, and sustainability, and activates the Brigg’s Field area adjacent to the railroad tracks.

Comprised as a series of four unique masses, each one acting as its own community within the larger population. Rooms are arranged in “clusters” of 35-38 students in a mix of singles and doubles with shared community spaces such as lounges and study rooms. The building encourages interaction between residents and participation in broader campus life through a variety of amenities, including a dining hall with cook for yourself spaces, music rooms, game rooms and maker spaces open to the MIT community. Outside, a tree-filled courtyard and a plaza provide green space and gathering opportunities.

Sustainable elements include green roofs; storm water management through underground retention beds and porous lawn and planted areas; and short and long-term bicycle parking spaces. Energy efficiency strategies include high performance building envelope, heating and cooling, efficient lighting, low-flow plumbing, and Energy Star appliances. The project is LEED Platinum.

This project was completed in partnership with Michael Maltzan Architecture.