December 24, 2015

Mahlum designs Oregon college dorm

Photos by Alan Brandt Photographer [enlarge]

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Central Oregon Community College opened a 330-bed residence hall on its Bend campus — the first new dorm in nearly 50 years.

The Seattle architecture firm Mahlum said a tight housing market and students' desire for a more robust campus experience prompted the college to build the project.

The dorm opened in September with 85 percent occupancy. Lease rates start at $3,600 per quarter for a double-occupancy room and include a meal plan.

Mahlum designed the project and Pinnacle Architecture was the local architect. The team also included Lease Crutcher Lewis, general contractor; KPFF Consulting Engineers, structural engineer; Harper Houf Peterson Righellis, civil engineer; PAE Consulting Engineers, MEP engineer and Harper Houf Peterson, landscape architect.

The 84,000-square-foot hall is built into a steep hill and steps down the slope. Most of the structure is four stories, although the middle section is five.

There are 83 two-bedroom suites, most with four beds. Many have views of Mount Bachelor and Three Sisters Mountain Range.

Study areas are included as well as a bonus room for storing mountain bikes, skis and snowboards. The lounge shares a double-sided hearth with a community kitchen.

The building is certified Earth Advantage Gold. Green features include native landscaping and minimal irrigation; a higher level of insulation; Energy Star lighting and appliances; low-VOC paints, sealants and adhesives; and low-flow plumbing fixtures.