By the beginning of the 2019-2020 academic year, there will be some new housing options for Bowdoin seniors and juniors. The College recently received approval from the Brunswick Planning Board for the construction of four twenty-two-bed residential buildings west of Chamberlain Hall, along Park Row. The $15.25-million project has been developed by architects Lavallee/Brensinger to achieve  “Passive House” certification, using half the amount of energy as regular buildings because of more efficient insulation and improved air-exchange systems for heating and cooling.

The suite-style units will be in blocks of four, six, and eight students, with single bedrooms, a kitchen, and large common areas for eating and socializing. Park Row Apartments, as the project is called, are designed to deliver the kind of independent living experience that upperclass students desire, said Dean of Student Affairs Tim Foster.

“These apartments will be a significant, and much needed, upgrade to our upperclass housing options,” Foster said. “These will be durable, efficient, and thoughtfully-designed buildings done on a reasonable budget.” 

The twelve-month construction project is due to begin on August 20, 2018. The site will require the demolition of Gustafson House prior to construction.