Princeton University, Hobson College Residential Building

overview

As part of Princeton University’s residential college construction program, Hobson College is a new, 510-unit residence hall. The building consists of six-story wings with a focus on sustainable design and inclusive connectivity. The project is set to achieve LEED Gold certification by utilizing a hybrid structural system and energy-efficient building envelopes.

We provided structural and façade engineering services for the 270,000-square-foot facility, which is designed by PAU. Princeton University utilized an Integrated Design Process (IDP) to help ensure the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems met their ambitious sustainability requirements. We adjusted structure as required to meet the constructability requirements of the MEP systems.

highlights

• The top four floors of the building are composed of mass timber, which serves as an architecturally exposed structural system for the residential units.
• The lower two levels house gathering and support spaces and use a steel composite deck structural system.
• The high-performance façade comprises brick, terracotta, stone, light gauge metal-framed walls and standard glazing systems to achieve a unique combination of textures.
• The system details were designed in connection to the mass timber structure. The façade and roofing material layers were carefully calibrated to reduce maintenance cycles while meeting LEED Gold certification and mandated performance targets.