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Harvard University Unveils New Green Housing Center

Green features include siding with recycled content, renewable bamboo flooring and wall paneling, and low-VOC finishes.

Mairi Beautyman -- Interior Design, 11/25/2008 12:00:00 AM

Harvard University Green Housing 10 Akron Street

Harvard University graduate students have a new green housing complex to call their home away from home. Designed by architect Kyu Sung Woo, the 115,000 square foot six-story 10 Akron Street project is expected to land a high LEED rating for its sustainable design from the U.S. Green Building Council.

Harvard University Green Housing 10 Akron Street Located on the scenic Charles River, the complex boasts 215 beds, over 30 different suites, a faculty director’s suite, a fitness room, study lounge spaces, a multipurpose room, new public space, and a garage tucked away under the facility. It is one of several new residences underway or recently completed on the campus.

Clad in brick with wood siding, the complex has bay windows projected for shadow and shade and a large outdoor deck strategically placed to soak in views of the river and the cityscape.

Green features include regionally-sourced siding with recycled content, renewable bamboo flooring and wall paneling, and low-VOC finishes. With building systems, the design team focused on energy efficiency. Designed by landscape architect Michael Van Valkenburgh Associates, a seasonal garden with trees and native plantings offers a meditative retreat from studying.

Above: The 10 Akron Street Harvard University Project by architect Kyu Sung Woo. Photos courtesy of Kyu Sung Woo.