Hobson College

Hobson College is set to become a vibrant epicenter on Princeton University's campus, replacing the 1960's era First College (formerly Wilson College), and welcoming 510 resident students into its fold. Funded by a generous gift from Mellody Hobson, the project aims to mirror and embrace the University's evolving diversity, enriching the foundational Residential College system that underpins undergraduate life at Princeton. This initiative seeks to actualize a shared vision: a diverse, inclusive community where living, learning, socializing, and dining intersect to enrich students’ intellectual and social experiences.

This new college will both embrace and enhance the surrounding landscape. By weaving over 270,000 square feet of student living and learning spaces into the fabric of the campus, it helps complete the existing east-west corridor, punctuated by vibrant courtyards that encourage student engagement. Meticulously planned at the ground level, these spaces offer a blend of intellectual and social vitality, acting as both a thoroughfare and a destination that enriches the Princeton experience.

Designed to serve as a modern extension of Princeton's Gothic Revival aesthetic, Hobson College seamlessly integrates contemporary interpretations of gabled roofs, breezeways, and the signature Lockatong argillite, known as “Princeton Stone.” This thoughtful nod ensures the college remains a respectful yet refreshing neighbor, evoking a sense of comfortable familiarity.

The team, comprising leaders from PAU, JSA/MIXdesign, and Hanbury (architect of record), along with University stakeholders, engaged in an integrated design process that explores smart building components along with discussions on program, design, quality, maintainability, sustainability, schedule, and budget. Hanbury also led the programming and conceptual phases for Princeton's newest residential colleges -Yeh and New College West - and recently completed a study of the other six existing colleges to align with Princeton's vision for a four-year residential college experience.