The residence halls at Fordham University are the first project implemented from Sasaki's framework plan for the campus. The buildings are situated at the main pedestrian entry to campus, near the intersection of a major city boulevard and a commuter rail line. The structures establish a celebratory gateway to the campus from the Bronx. A historic pedestrian path from the gateway is accentuated with a series of open spaces. Closest to the gateway, the terraces are a hardscape with a sidewalk café overlooking the quad. Gradually, this public zone gives way to varied paving patterns, more trees, and a more intimate green space that includes a quiet courtyard. Adjacent to several existing residence halls, the project effectively consolidates a residential neighborhood on the west side of campus, and provides an opportunity for the area to become a mixed-use, student life hub.
The buildings are set on raised terraces, and establish a sense of place by framing one of the most important green spaces on campus. Each of the two buildings is articulated as two towers with a shared lobby. This strategy supports smaller student neighborhoods at each floor, reinforcing the university's focus on community. At the heart of residential floors, double-height lounges offer opportunities for socialization and group learning. At the first floor, the buildings house a café, a multipurpose room, and two integrated learning centers—key components of the halls' living & learning programs. Even the laundry room—an often overlooked space—is designed as a social place, located adjacent to casual study areas and with direct visual connection to the exterior via a glazed arcade.
The residence halls pick up both materials and subtle Gothic architectural patterns from existing campus buildings to create a forward-looking, mixed-use village at Fordham. Brightly-colored glazing in common areas adds a modern element to the design.
As part of the university's ongoing commitment to sustainability, the residence halls take advantage of natural light and ventilation. Highly porous paving is incorporated into the site design and integrated with a major stormwater detention system to reduce water infiltration issues. The project has achieved LEED® Gold Certification.
Material Used:
1. Vermont Structural Slate, Slate Sculping, Heathermore
2. Graham Doors and Windows – Doors, Windows, Curtainwall
3. Endicott Brick – Manganese Ironspot Smooth & Artisan
4. Hanover – Exterior Asphalt& Concrete Pavers
5. Armstrong – Optima Ceiling Panel
6. Shaw – Synthesis IV (Accent) Carpet Tile
7. Lees - Neofloor
8. Mechoshade – Automatic and manual shades
9. Flor Gres – Chrometech 3.0 Matte
10. Prodema – Interior and exterior wood panels
11. McGrory Glass – Colored Laminated Glass
12. Daltile – Mosaic Colorbody Porcelain
13. Armstrong – Biobased Tile
