Kathleen McCartney Hall

Announced in November 2023, Kathleen McCartney Hall will be a sustainable, inclusive, welcoming, and inspiring hub for career development and leadership training. With a “purpose-driven design,” the building will enable direct collaboration between the Lazarus and Wurtele Centers for the first time.

“In this new building, the college’s commitment to career development and its belief in the power of women’s leadership will take another step forward.”

President Willie-LeBreton

Building Futures

In keeping with Smith’s core values of sustainability, generosity, community, and innovation, goals for Kathleen McCartney Hall include creating a space where everyone feels welcomed and encouraged, where collaboration happens openly and easily, and where students are empowered to pursue their dreams.

Read the Article Read the Press Release

A Timeline for Success

Smithies will only need to wait a little over a year from the time of groundbreaking until the opening of this new, impactful space. Check out the timeline of major construction events.

Date(s)	Details
February 12, 2024	The 8 College Lane parking lot permanently closed.
March 12–22, 2024	Demolition of 8 College Lane will be underway.
April 2024	Groundbreaking and foundation preparation will begin. Construction will continue through winter 2024 and spring 2025.
Summer 2025	Kathleen McCartney Hall will open.

Sustainability Front and Center

Following in the footsteps of the redesign of Neilson Library, this construction project is rooted in sustainability. Featuring responsibly sourced mass timber and a living roof, Kathleen McCartney Hall will soon be one of the most energy-efficient buildings on Smith’s campus.

Participant

in the Healthy Materials initiative

LEED Gold

certified

Geothermal

heating and cooling

Smith’s first

heavy timber construction

A Look Ahead

Take a sneak peek at the interior and exterior of Kathleen McCartney Hall.

View of the entry of Kathleen McCartney Hall. Credit: TenBerke, press@tenberke.com Architect: TenBerke

Bright and welcoming interiors. A warm and eclectic palette and mix of soft furnishings will invite students to drop-in and linger. Credit: TenBerke, press@tenberke.com Architect: TenBerke

View from across Paradise Pond. Perched on a hillside, Kathleen McCartney Hall will overlook Paradise Pond at Smith College. Credit: TenBerke, press@tenberke.com Architect: TenBerke

Under Construction

Curious about how construction is coming along? Check out the progress with our two live webcams.