Binghamton University Grace Hall

Newman is currently working with KBE Building Corporation to bring a new design-build residence hall to Binghamton University, a public research university that is part of the State University of New York system. With a deep respect for the ecological integrity of the site, adjacent to the forested campus edge, our design prioritizes conservation and an appreciation for nature. By strategically positioning the building to the north, we are able to minimize disruption to the existing trees and preserve the site's natural character. The L shape of the building serves both functional and aesthetic purposes, framing the site entry while creating a welcoming threshold. The shape negotiates the natural sloping topography, and the height mediates the varying buildings heights of the two adjacent residential colleges.

In addition to a full program of resident amenity space, the new seven-story building provides 350 beds in three- and four-bedroom, six-student suites, plus six two-bedroom suites, twelve single bed suites, ten single ADA suites, one Super ADA unit, and a two-bedroom Resident Director apartment. The exterior expression of the building draws inspiration from both the natural environment and the neighboring context of Mountainview College. Utilizing a palette of red and gray bricks and projecting bays on the west and south facades, the building is of the Mountainview College family while being differentiated to express evolution over time and respond to its setting. The underlying variegated brick pattern that runs up and down the façade on all sides alludes to patterns found in the natural world.