Bard College Berlin Student Residences

Bard College Berlin marked a new phase in its campus life with the opening of two brand new student housing residences, in an apartment configuration to house 120 students. Standing in complete contrast to the pervasive tradition of housing students in small, uninviting spaces, DBI developed these new facilities to foster organic interaction between students and engagement with the city’s artistic, political, and cultural scenes. Leading the project from its inception, we are deeply gratified to have fulfilled the college’s need for more beds while creating significant added value through thoughtful design.

Building on the success of the G27 Academic Campus, also located in Berlin and developed by DBI, the Bard dormitories’ layout uses a landscaped courtyard to form a gathering place on each building’s ground floor. To fill the abundance of common spaces inside, New York City-based design firm Civilian designed a suite of custom furniture inspired by the pared down utility of 1920s furniture, while the public lounge and cafe spaces feature refinished vintage furniture from the 70’s and 80’s to contrast with custom millwork and paneling.

Managing a project on a separate continent through planning, financing, design and construction, required capable and knowledgeable development partners in Berlin, Papillon Investment and Asset Vision Partners. Despite the COVID-19 related challenges, the project was delivered on time and under budget.