Simmons Hall

Roll over photo thumbnails to change large image.        All photographs by Andy Ryan.

Architect	Steven Holl Architects
Completed	2002
Scope	196,000 gsf
design features	study and group lounges a multipurpose room computer lab game room laundry facilities and kitchenettes
sustainable design elements	6,000 operable windows with solar shading provide natural ventilation a low-energy ventilation and dehumidification mechanical design supplement natural ventilation. This combination allows the dormitory to be used year-round without requiring air conditioning the concrete walls of the building also help to maintain the occupants’ comfort. Exposed interior concrete takes advantage of night ventilation to cool and the thermal lag of the concrete to maintain cooler temperatures during the day
Awards	2003 Build Massachusetts Merit Award Associated General Contractors of Massachusetts 2003 Honor Award for Outstanding Architecture American Institute of Architects 2004 Charles Harleston Parker Award Boston Society of Architects 2004 Engineering Excellence Honor Award American Council of Engineering Companies

Designed by architect Steven Holl in collaboration with Perry Dean Rogers Architects, this ten-story dormitory for 350 undergraduate students and faculty is punctuated by terraces and atria and includes a computer cluster, fitness center, music rooms and street-level dining.

Simmons' bold geometry is already a Cambridge landmark. The building's shimmering exterior is wrapped in more than 5,500 windows connected by a grid of anodized aluminum. The building reflects light during the day and glows with interior light after dark.

Simmons Hall has received numerous awards, including the 2004 Engineering Excellence Honor Award from the American Council of Engineering Companies.

Project Team

Project Managers/MIT	Jonathan Himmel
design architect	Steven Holl Architects
architects	Perry Dean Rogers
mep engineers	Ove Arup & Partners
structural engineers	Guy Nordensen and Associates, LLP. Simpson, Gumpertz & Heger
construction manager	Daniel O'Connell & Sons