Massachusetts Hall

Massachusetts Hall is the oldest and highest profile building on the Harvard University campus. Constructed in 1719 it houses the offices of the President, Provost, Harvard administrators, and serves as a dormitory for freshman students. During the Revolutionary War, Massachusetts Hall accommodated hundreds of American soldiers and as a dormitory it housed historical figures such as John Adams and John Hancock.

BWA Architecture worked in collaboration with both Harvard University and the Cambridge Historic Commission to preserve Massachusetts Hall’s Georgian architecture, the restoration and replication of historic interior and exterior details and new interior finishes. BWA led a large team of engineering and specialty consultants for accessibility improvements including the installation of a new elevator; integration of new mechanical, electrical, communications, AV, and significant code and life safety system upgrades.