David Smotrich & Partners LLP was tasked with adapting two historic residence halls, originally designed by McKim, Mead & White in 1905, to accommodate a new undergraduate living concept for Columbia University. The project reimagined housing for groups of 10 to 15 students, each focused on a specific field of interest, creating small “houses” within the larger residence system. Designed to serve 470 students, the scope involved a comprehensive gut renovation of these National Register-listed buildings, which were in a state of disrepair. The exteriors were carefully restored, while previously underutilized attic spaces were transformed by the addition of skylights to bring in natural light, now serving as student lounges and activity areas.