Caltech Bechtel Residence

Location

Pasadena, CA

Owner

California Institute of Technology

Architect

ZGF

Project Size

95,000 SF

LEED Rating

Platinum

Awards

2019 | SCDF Design Award, Educational

2019 | ENR Regional Best Project, Higher Education

The three-story, IPD Caltech Bechtel Residence, located on the northeast side of campus, gave Caltech the opportunity to house all undergraduates on campus. The residence contains suites to sleep 196, 16 single-student bedrooms, five kitchen and lounge areas, four common areas with study rooms, six laundry rooms, a dining facility, a large centered courtyard and a balcony overlooking the courtyard. Exteriors are architectural concrete.

The six sub-structures of the building connect to increase the amount of interaction opportunities. The dining hall walls are primarily made of glass to make it easier to see and communicate with others. Balconies overlook the central courtyard, and large doors open to matching suites situated opposite. The building is also key piece in making Caltech a zero-net water campus.

Photo credit: Bruce Damonte