This project transformed Bennington College’s Commons from an underused building that blocked movement across campus into a multi-use hub that stitches together its surroundings. The renovation is the first substantial upgrade to the facility since the 1930s, and it equips Commons to serve the College for decades to come while embracing the historic character of the building and context.
By reconfiguring back-of-house food services and adding several new entrances, the renovation introduces a north-south axis through the building, better linking these two halves of the campus. The renovation also doubles dining capacity, brings 16 new classrooms online, adds a peer-learning lab, and incorporates social lounges and student services to complement surrounding academic facilities—all without expanding the building footprint.
In addition to creating new layouts with new finishes and furnishings, adding windows and exterior doors, we also introduced an entirely new HVAC system using energy recovery ventilators, fire suppression systems, elevators, and accessible entries to bring the building up to contemporary building standards. New landscaped areas around the building improve its presence on campus and enhance the pedestrian experience - all this while meeting state historical preservation requirements through a wholesale restoration of the main facade, roof, and cupola.
