Hartley Hall Renovation to Deliver Modernized Student Living Spaces for Fall 2027

A major renovation of Hartley Hall is underway, transforming the 120-year-old residence hall into a modern, accessible, and sustainable living environment for Columbia students. 

The full-building renovation and infrastructure upgrade began in November 2025 and includes a complete interior transformation, structural remediation, and modernization of the building’s mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems. Originally constructed in 1905, Hartley Hall’s last major upgrade was completed in the 1980s. This project will align the building with today’s standards for student housing. 

The renovated building will feature updated student rooms, bathrooms, lounges, public corridors, building interior systems, and improved accessibility throughout.

Updated Spaces Designed for Student Living 

The renovated Hartley Hall will feature a corridor-style layout with 139 student rooms: 56 singles and 83 doubles. Most floors will feature eight single-use bathrooms. 

New amenities will include: 

• Floor lounges with soft seating, tables, chairs, and televisions 
• Floor lounges also feature pantry area with microwave, sink, and beverage faucet 
• Study lounges with tables and chairs 

The building will also feature a traditional main lounge to serve as a central gathering space for residents. The 24/7 Housing Hospitality Desk will return to the building lobby. 

Improved Comfort and Accessibility 

The renovated building will be fully ADA accessible, including student rooms and common areas, and will feature a new entrance ramp. 

Resident-focused upgrades will include: 

• Individual, in-room heating and cooling units, controlled by student  
• Window sensors for energy efficiency 
• Lighting controls 
• New furniture and interior finishes 

Supporting Columbia’s Sustainability Goals 

Hartley Hall is designed to achieve LEED Gold certification through improvements that increase energy efficiency and enhance building performance, including: 

• Upgraded exterior envelope to reduce heating and cooling loss 
• Energy-efficient replacement windows 
• Improved heating and cooling systems 
• A clean construction approach to mitigate impacts, including noise, exhaust emissions, and dust reduction measures 

The project will preserve Hartley Hall’s historic McKim, Mead and White character, including the existing roof design, while upgrading its interior and infrastructure for long-term use. 

Taking Place Now: Construction Fit-Out  

The project remains on track for students to return to Hartley Hall in Fall 2027.  The current construction phase includes:

• Interior wall and ceiling layout, framing and painting 
• Building mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire protection service implementation 
• Installation of interior finishes, cabinets, ceilings, frames, doors, lighting and plumbing 
• Window replacement   

Scaffolding is expected to come down in early 2027, marking another visible milestone in the renovation. 

Hartley and Wallach's construction in 1905 represented a major transition for Columbia from a “commuter Ivy” to a residential college, contributing to academic and social experiences for students beyond the classroom. 

When complete, Hartley Hall will provide students with updated living spaces that combine modern comfort, accessibility, sustainability, and the historic character of one of Columbia’s longstanding residence halls. This work is part of Columbia Housing's ongoing commitment to providing students with a safe and supported environment as they pursue their academic goals. In 2025, Housing completed a full renovation of its first all-electric residence hall at 611 W 112th Street.