Boston University
Renovation of Warren Towers
BOSTON, MA
East Façade
Comprised of three 14-story towers that rest on a shared 4-story podium, Boston University’s Warren Towers houses an impressive 1,800 students and earns recognition for being the second largest student residence hall in the country. Warren Towers has been housing students for more than 50 years and currently serves almost half of BU’s first year students. Time has ushered in a set of challenges, the largest of which surround the deteriorating envelope and a failing glazing system; both of which have yielded significant water intrusion.
Dorm Room
Corridor
The renewed towers address Boston University’s need for a residential environment that has improved performance and is aligned programmatically with contemporary student needs. A wholistic approach was taken to address these goals.
Exterior envelope improvements include new parapets, masonry repairs, new roofing systems, and addressing the façade’s thermal energy performance. All changes were designed to complement the campus’ existing adjacent buildings and to reach operation at 100% electric power.
The tower’s MEP systems also received a much-needed upgrade. The towers have undergone a project-wide conversion from steam heating and hot water to all electric. Additionally, they now boast a new HVAC system, an emergency power back-up system, and back-up electric boilers.
Updated MEP Systems
Resident’s Lounge
Internally, the towers will be upgraded to provide fully accessible and code-compliant facilities. Program considerations include: the addition of All Gender Restrooms, providing activity and study spaces on the fourth-floor podium, an emphasis on sustainable materiality, fully air-conditioned spaces including the prioritization of air ventilation into dorm rooms to meet LEED requirements, and a complete electrification and redesign of a 22,200-sf dining hall.
Updates follow the new Stretch Energy Code and Article 37.
Construction on the towers will have a phased approach, beginning in Summer 2025, allowing students to occupy the space throughout its renovation, with anticipated completion of Summer 2028.
Site Context
View from Arundel Square
Other Projects:
