Independence and Community
New residence halls transform an underused site into a vibrant student living environment that supports growth and connection.
Robertson & South Residence Halls
Allentown, PA
Muhlenberg College, a private liberal arts institution in Pennsylvania’s Lehigh Valley, is known for its close-knit campus community and commitment to student development. As students move into their junior and senior years, the college encourages autonomy and readiness for life after graduation through expanded residential options.
An underutilized and often overlooked section of campus presented an opportunity to deliver housing that supported this transition. The college aimed to transform the area into a welcoming, student-focused environment while addressing site challenges and enhancing campus connectivity.
To achieve this, two new residence halls—Robertson and South—were designed to anchor the site and frame a new inner plaza. Each hall is organized into four-person suites with a shared living space and galley kitchen, offering students both privacy and opportunities for social engagement.
Built into a sloped terrain overlooking Cedar Beach Park, the buildings take full advantage of natural views while fostering a strong residential community. The adjacent plaza was designed as a flexible outdoor space for events, entertainment, and casual gatherings, further strengthening campus life.
As a result, the 140-bed housing addition meets student needs for independence and connection and reinvigorates a once-neglected part of campus—contributing to Muhlenberg’s holistic approach to student success.
“With this project we wanted to provide a new prototype for college housing and offer our students a living experience not available anywhere else. EwingCole achieved our vision. We consider them a part of the Muhlenberg family.”
– Arthur Taylor, President
