Did you know that the CGIS North Knafel Building is more than just a building? It’s a hub of collaboration. It is a place where ideas converge.
The CGIS North Knafel Building stands as part of Harvard’s Center for Government and International Studies. It’s located at 1737 Cambridge Street. Pei Cobb Freed & Partners designed it. Construction finished in 2005. Sidney R. Knafel, a Harvard benefactor, is its namesake. He provided a generous founding gift in 1996.
William C. Kirby said the buildings cross boundaries. He stated that they form connections. The CGIS North Knafel Building energizes teaching and scholarship at Harvard.
The building’s design promotes interaction. Dramatic rounded staircases link upper floors. Soaring atriums connect different levels. Informal lounges offer space for casual chats. Faculty and students can easily connect.
Natural light fills the underground areas. A winter garden draws light from a pyramidal glass structure. There is also a large triangular skylight. It brightens an underground library reading room.
The H.C. Fung Library is located in the CGIS North Knafel Building. It holds journals and newspapers. These cover international politics and economics. It also houses collections from various centers. These include the Fairbank Center and the Davis Center.
The CGIS complex eases overcrowding. It allowed the Department of Economics to consolidate its offices. This brought faculty and students together after nine years.
Harvard reduced the building’s height and footprint. This addressed community concerns. The shape changed to create a softer profile. The CGIS North Knafel Building was set back from the street. This granted a more inviting presence.
The dedication ceremony honored Sidney R. Knafel and other donors. President Lawrence H. Summers saluted Knafel. He recognized his vision. He said it brings the best learning to solve real-world challenges.
Inside the CGIS North Knafel Building, you’ll find the Fisher Family Commons. It is a café that was founded by Nancy and Richard Fisher. The Tsai Auditorium was funded by the family of Felix H.T. Tsai. Bankee Kwan and Kin-chung Lam named seminar rooms. Laurence and Carolyn Belfer established the Laurence and Carolyn Belfer Case Study Room.
The CGIS North Knafel Building stands as a testament. It shows Harvard’s commitment to interdisciplinary exchange. It supports international studies. Its design fosters collaboration and innovation. It unites scholars from around the globe. As you explore, imagine the countless discussions. Picture the groundbreaking research happening within these walls. The CGIS North Knafel Building is a place where ideas take flight.