Bentley Hall and Pennoni Honors College

Originally constructed in 1969, Bentley Hall at Drexel University typifies a common challenge faced by many universities: a large, in this case 406-bed residence hall that is outdated and no longer serves the needs of students. SCB served as architect and interior designer for a full renovation of the existing Bentley Hall and an 11,000-square-foot academic addition.

Renovations of the original Bentley Hall included a full building systems update and complete remodel of the student residential units and bathrooms. Lounges adjacent to the elevators were added to each floor, and alternate between social and study uses to help build a sense of community among residents. The ground floor was re-imagined to connect seamlessly to the addition, housing three seminar rooms, a large multi-purpose room with a kitchen, quiet study space, and a “living room” for the honors college. The interior design for the space takes several cues from the original mid-century vintage of Bentley Hall including exposed brick walls, modern furniture, and lighting inspired by the era.

The new addition provides the honors college with a new identity and is differentiated from the larger Bentley Hall through a modern stone and glass architectural expression.

Location Philadelphia, PA

Size 105,000 SF / 406 beds

Client American Campus Communities and Drexel University