Columbia University opens its 1st all-electric residence hall; Sustainable and accessible
MORNINGSIDE HEIGHTS, Manhattan (WABC) -- Columbia University opened its first all-electric undergraduate residence hall, with a ribbon cutting ceremony on Wednesday.
The residence hall is located at 611 W. 112th St. within the Morningside Heights Historic District. The building's all-electric status refers to the sustainable elements of its structure and facilities.
"We had been strategically evaluating this property for some time, recognizing its prime location as a transformational opportunity for our housing portfolio," said David M. Greenberg, executive vice president for University Facilities and Operations.
The building is fossil fuel free and emitting 43% less carbon than a standard residence hall in New York City. Other sustainable elements include specialized heating and cooling systems, green roof trays, high-performance windows, and variable refrigerant flow heat pumps, among others.
"This project allowed us to reimagine what a modern residence hall can be-creating an efficient, sustainable, 21st century living environment from the ground up while honoring the building's historic character and the heritage of the Morningside Heights Historic District," Greenberg said. "We're not just renovating a building; we're advancing our vision for the future of undergraduate residential life at Columbia."
The residence hall will be open for the 2025-26 academic year, and hosts 76 double rooms and seven single rooms. Each floor of the building has seven single-use restrooms and a common space with a kitchenette, seating, and television. There is a lounge on the lower level, as well as three courtyards.
The new building is fully accessible to students with disabilities. There are accessible student rooms and restrooms, a new entrance map, and an elevator.
"We could not be more thrilled with 611 W. 112th St. - its positive impact on sustainability, its historic restoration, and most of all, its opportunities for building community and enhancing on-campus living for Columbia's undergraduate students," said Scott Wright, vice president for Campus Services. "We cannot wait for the building to come alive with its inaugural residents after renovation."
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