Heads in Beds: the Colby College Hyper-Speed Dormitory Project

Typical university dormitory projects are capital intensive and take several years to complete. This project turned this practice on its head. Using modular construction, on-site precast foundations, an integrated design-build team and low-embodied-carbon materials in a holistic approach, Colby College housed students as quickly as possible while ensuring the highest standards of beauty, accessibility, energy consumption, and healthy materials. Design started in September 2021, and students moved in in August 2022. The solutions we present will show other teams how to implement these practices to meet the needs of both the planet and the people.

Session Chair(s): 

Event Time: 

Wednesday, March 29, 2023 - 10:30am to 12:00pm

Room / Location:
Harbor 2

CEU Information: 

Approved for 1.5 credit hours toward AIA (LU), BOC, GBCI (BD+C), and NARI certification. Credit is offered for each full conference day toward MA CSL, PHI, Phius, and RESNET certification.

Learning Objectives:

  • Employ best practices in modular construction in a multifamily building
  • Use strategies to practice Design-Build effectively on fast track projects
  • Describe appropriate integrated mechanical systems for dormitory applications
  • Identify appropriate materials for construction of low-embodied energy multifamily structures

Session ID: 

BOS23-503

Session Documents: