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Harvard Undergraduate House Renewal, Adams House

The renovation and renewal of Adams House, one of Harvard’s most architecturally significant undergraduate residential houses, revitalizes the historic complex without losing its treasured “quirks.”

The project, comprised of seven eclectic buildings dating from the 18th through 20th centuries, involves transformation and expansion of its residential, social, academic, and art spaces, as well as restoration of envelope and comprehensive upgrades to systems and circulation.

Renewal of Claverly Hall, the first of three phases of the Adams House Renewal project, was completed in March 2021. BBB’s design for Claverly Hall preserves its history and character while improving its functionality, accessibility, and student life offerings. A combination of salvage, restoration, and new finishes refresh the generous corridors and grand stair, with new touches such as study nooks for respite and custom decorative fixtures for architectural interest.

A small pool known as a “dipping tank,” original to the building, was hidden under the floors; its shell has been revealed as a multipurpose space that features the pool’s original marble wall paneling and lion’s head mantelpiece. An adjacent new lounge combines former racquetball courts and a stone-lined turret called The Keep, creating a social space that blends old and new character.

 

Client

Harvard House Renewal Project Management Office

Location

Cambridge, MA

Size

240,000 SF (7 buildings)

Completed

Ongoing

People

AIA, LEED AP
Managing Partner
Partner-in-Charge
AIA, LEED AP BD+C
Principal
AIA, LEED AP
Principal
AIA
Principal
IIDA, LEED AP
Principal, Director of the Boston Office
Assoc. AIA
Senior Associate, Construction Administrator
AIA
Senior Associate, Architect
Associate, Architectural Designer
RA
Associate
Associate, Architectural Designer
ARB
Associate
AIA, LFA
Associate, Architect
Assoc. AIA, LEED AP
Associate, Architectural Designer
AIA
Director of Design & Construction Technology