Princeton University Hobson College

Hobson College is set to redefine the residential experience at Princeton University, embodying a bold, forward-thinking vision that celebrates the institution’s growing diversity at the heart of its historic campus. Replacing the former First College (originally Wilson College), this dynamic new community will welcome 510 resident students and become a vibrant hub of campus life.

The design showcases an exposed mass timber structure, with 7-ply CLT floors and roofs supported by Glulam columns and beams on the top four residential levels. Below, two steel composite deck levels house communal and support spaces. A high-performance façade—featuring a rich mix of brick, terracotta, stone, and glass—offers striking textures, durability, and a path toward LEED Gold certification.

The project is the result of a deeply collaborative process, bringing together design leaders from PAU, JSA/MIXdesign, and Hanbury (architect of record), alongside Princeton University stakeholders. Together, they engaged in an integrated design approach that carefully considered programmatic needs, architectural quality, long-term maintainability, sustainability goals, and budget and scheduling priorities.