New Village Residence Hall

The dormitory resides on the eastern side of Fairfield University’s pristine 200 acre campus in close proximity to woods, wetlands and Hopkins Pond. This newest residence hall is located behind the DiMenna Nyselius library and a just short walk from the Student Center. It consists of a 68,000 square feet that house semi-independent apartments and common living spaces. The project team included Newman Architects and the engineering team of Kohler Ronan, LLC.

To get there, I took the pedestrian friendly Library Walk toward the building’s blue-stone and slate entry, over a raised intersection and past bicycle racks. Different color bricks cheerfully dress the exterior and mesh well with this active college setting. Its friendly and contemporary design welcomed me inside. Adjacent to the main entry is an energetic common space full of interaction and camaraderie. Further into the space and separated by wooden louvered screens, a sliding door, and etched glass are study areas with tables and a comfortable and large lounging spot.

Next, I turned toward the generous windows that flank this airy gathering room and was visually drawn outside toward the exterior green space. The trees in the distance seemed to move and sway with the energies of the students inside. On the second level, I visited a four-bedroom apartment with a living/dining space, kitchen and bathrooms. I learned that the facility had onsite shared laundry and interior bike storage.

Back outside on the common terrace, a necessary retaining wall is woven into the green space. This grass staircase connects the terrace to the lawn and serves as a social gathering spot. The large lawn is outlined with pedestrian pole lights that enhance the picturesque atmosphere of this Fairfield, Connecticut campus.