Hassenfeld-Krivoff Residence Hall

Hassenfeld-Krivoff Residence Hall. A name whispered with a mix of bewilderment and grudging affection by Brandeis University sophomores. Let’s unravel the enigma that is East Quad, the larger complex to which Hassenfeld-Krivoff belongs. Picture this: 1964. A sleek, modernist structure rises amidst the quiet, wooded area of the upper campus. Designed by Benjamin Thompson and The Architects Collaborative, Hassenfeld-Krivoff Residence Hall, along with Shapiro, Pomerantz, and Rubenstein Halls, formed a collection of “houses” within the newly built East Quad. Each house boasted its own entrance, staircase, and multiple floors of suites. A far cry from the current configuration of single and double rooms lining narrow hallways. Those large windows that flood some singles with natural light? They once illuminated spacious suite lounges. Over time, the houses lost their individual identities. Now, only Hassenfeld and Pomerantz remain in the student vernacular. Imagine the original grandeur of the design. Strips of windows emphasizing verticality, bright white walkways and concrete “belts” contrasting with the brick and greenery. Today, time and overgrowth have softened the modernist aesthetic. The concrete has faded to gray, and the greenery has encroached, obscuring the clean lines envisioned by Thompson. East Quad has its own mythology. Rumors swirl about its unusual layout. Was it designed by a prison architect? Are the hallways deliberately narrow? While the prison architect theory seems unfounded, the narrow hallways remain a constant source of student speculation. One documented incident involves a turkey colliding with a window, adding a touch of the absurd to the building’s lore. The Brandeis Intercultural Center, nestled within the former Swig Student Center dining hall, adds another layer to East Quad’s story. This repurposing of spaces is a recurring theme at Brandeis. Who knows what the future holds for Hassenfeld-Krivoff Residence Hall? Perhaps one day, lectures will echo within its walls. Despite its quirks, East Quad serves as a modern echo of Brandeis’ iconic castle. Its towers, the bridge connecting it to the ICC, even the crenelations along the roofline, all evoke a castle-like atmosphere. The triangular staircases, while dizzying, add a unique touch. And, let’s be honest, those dimly lit hallways on the lower floors of Hassenfeld and Pomerantz do have a certain dungeon-esque charm. Hassenfeld-Krivoff Residence Hall. A place of baffling architecture, persistent rumors, and unexpected charm. It’s a testament to evolving design and the enduring power of student lore. As you stand here, looking at its brick facade, remember that you are witnessing a piece of Brandeis history.