Title:A thriving new residential community on the Hilltop Campus

Nearly six months after moving into Byrnes Hall, one of three towers that make up the newest residential community on Georgetown’s Hilltop campus, students say the building’s ample gathering spaces and distinctive amenities have been a meaningful addition to their undergraduate experience.

Built on the site of the former Henle Village, the new residential complex features comfortable, apartment-style living for juniors and seniors. Georgetown named the west tower the William Gerard and Lisa Hawkins Byrnes Hall in recognition of a $20 million bequest from William “Bill” G. Byrnes (B’72, L’81) and Lisa H. Byrnes (SLL’80). The residential complex’s east and north towers are named John T. Hayden Hall and Robert J. Henle, S.J. Hall, respectively.

“Byrnes, Hayden, and Henle Halls show what student life can be like for an upperclass student in a university residence hall,” said Nico Hohman, Georgetown’s director of capital projects. “We’re excited to provide students the space to build a rich community life on the Hilltop.”

Byrnes Hall’s inaugural residents have made the most of the opportunity. “As an RA, I see how people have made the living rooms, bedrooms, and community spaces their own,” said Taylor Moses, a resident assistant (RA) in Byrnes Hall. “Residents have a level of pride in Byrnes—new couch, new shower, pool tables, and conversation pits. Investment in these spaces makes people excited about the places they will call home.”

Providing new options for upper-level students

Georgetown requires full-time students to live on campus for three years, and the new residential village advances the university’s ambition to provide more housing options for upper-level students. Byrnes, Hayden, and Henle Halls are larger and more accessible than the previous housing on that site, offering accommodations for up to 732 undergraduate students, with priority given to seniors.

“We’re very happy to help build a space that will take away some of the stress and burden juniors and seniors feel looking for housing on or near campus,” said Lisa Byrnes.

“When I was an undergraduate, I had to move off campus in my junior year because there just wasn’t sufficient housing,” said Bill Byrnes. “Being on campus all four years can be such a rewarding experience for students. Lisa and I were mindful of this when thinking about how to give back.”

Residents of Byrnes, Hayden, and Henle Halls live in fully furnished four-bedroom, two-bedroom and studio apartments, each with an in-unit washer and dryer and a full-size kitchen, including a refrigerator, dishwasher, stove, and microwave. Bedrooms are equipped with desks, chairs, and twin-XL beds. Shared living spaces in each unit include a dining room table, chairs, a couch, a coffee table, and a TV stand.

“It really feels like independent living while still being right in the heart of campus,” said Byrnes Hall resident Ninabella Arlis (C, MSB’26). “This is my favorite dorm I’ve ever lived in.” Watch this video for a Byrnes Hall tour with Ninabella.

Bringing students together in community

Beyond its upgraded accommodations, Byrnes Hall features 15,000 square feet of communal and study spaces, including an inviting lobby and rooms for yoga, meditation, quiet time, gaming, and more. Students also can unwind in the outdoor gathering area, featuring electric grills, an outdoor kitchen, and seating.

“We really hope that the students view the residence hall as not just the place for them to lay their heads on a pillow at night, but a gathering spot,” said Bill. “It’s a place where students can gather, study, form friendships, and thrive,” Lisa adds.

Bridging sustainability and student well-being

Georgetown designed Byrnes, Hayden, and Henle Halls to promote both physical and environmental wellness, in keeping with the university’s commitments to sustainability and student wellbeing.

Among their sustainability features, all three buildings have solar panels on the roof to generate energy and offset the load to Georgetown’s electrical grid. The interior includes living green walls and other spaces designed to connect occupants to nature. The complex is Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED) Platinum certified, which signifies the highest tier of energy efficiency, cost-savings, and carbon emissions reduction.

Support for projects like Byrnes, Hayden, and Henle Halls makes it possible for Georgetown to fulfill its mission and its ambitions as a growing institution. Learn more about the ways we are ensuring our physical spaces can support our success.