Come Back

Commons

After years of planning, four years of design, and two years of construction, a newly renovated Commons building opened in the fall.

commons north view at night

This holistic remaking of the historic and beloved center of campus community life combines dining, social, and academic areas within a collection of dynamic spaces. The building is animated by daylight, views, natural materials, and artwork. Like a Bennington education, Commons is a manifestation of learning by doing, of drawing on resources and inspiration from all around us, and is a building that embodies the merger of our work and social lives. Here the campus community can again eat and study in the same space, mentor, perform, and relax together. It is thrilling to be continuing an already rich

VISIT

There has never been a better time to come back to campus than now. We invite alumni near and far to return and tour Commons to experience the space and the difference space makes. Or tour the difference online by visiting bennington.edu/commonsbuilding for a gallery of images, floor-by-floor tours, and for more information on the many new, interconnected spaces including Roz’s Cafe; the Class of 1977 Lounge; Signa Lynch Read ’79 Bookstore; the Carolyn Crossett Rowland ’37 Forum; and the Atrium performance and lecture space below the cupola on the third floor.

A view of north campus from Commons 302.
A view of north campus from Commons 302.
dining hall interior and serving area exposed wood ceilings
Looking into the kitchen from the west wing of the dining hall.
student lounge with white walls, long windows and green couches
The Carolyn Crossett Rowland '37 Forum, a new peer-to-peer learning and study space on the third floor.

PHOTOGRAPHS BY SCOTT FRANCES
DESIGN BY CHRISTOFF:FINIO ARCHITECTURE