Lehigh University, SouthSide Commons

Design Team: Atkin Olshin Schade Architects: Sam Olshin, AIA; Paul Avazier AIA, LEED AP BD+C; Ryan Tighe; Christine Furman, RA; O’Donnell & Naccarato (Structural); Bala Engineering (MEP/FP); Andropogon (Landscape Architect); Pennoni (Civil)

In 2016, Lehigh University announced ambitious plans to add up to 1,000 new undergraduate students and 500 to 800 full-time graduate students over the next eight years. As part of this “Path to Prominence” plan, Lehigh announced a competition in 2017 for a developer-led residence hall project team to provide a new student housing facility. Situated at the edge of the Lehigh University campus on Brodhead Avenue, this six-story, 428-bed apartment-style building has a fitness center, study lounges, and three distinct landscaped courtyards. The challenging site slopes down from the campus to the north and drops 50 feet in elevation along the building’s length. The site provides commanding views from the new residence hall to downtown Bethlehem, the former Bethlehem Steel plant, and the Lehigh River beyond.

The design of the exterior of SouthSide Commons draws inspiration from the city’s industrial past and from the university’s own buildings. The residence hall is clad with iron-spot brick masonry and vertically ribbed metal panels to create a lively, contemporary pattern that respects the historical context. Abundant natural light, south-facing sunshades, recycled and recyclable finishes, and highly efficient mechanical systems address sustainability goals and support Lehigh’s reputation as an outstanding academic institution with an engineering focus. The building opened for students in August 2019.

Additional Information

Other projects from this professional

Sadie Tanner Mossell Alexander University of Pennsylvania Partnership School

The Sadie Tanner Mossell Alexander University of Pennsylvania Partnership School is a...