The Sojourner Truth Apartments at The Yard, designed by Elkus Manfredi Architects, stands as a testament to innovative design and collaborative urban development, aiming to cultivate a vibrant residential community while strengthening ties between the university and the city. Offering 442 student beds across 135 apartments, this transformative project sets a new standard for student accommodation at Rutgers University’s College Avenue Campus.
Fostering Independence and Community
Situated adjacent to Voorhees Mall, The Yard epitomizes a strategic partnership between Rutgers University and the City’s development agency, New Brunswick Development Corporation (Devco). Through meticulous planning and coordination, the project seamlessly integrates into the historic fabric of the campus while embracing contemporary student living. The apartments, ranging from two- to four-person suites, feature full kitchens and living rooms, empowering students to transition into independent living while maintaining strong connections to campus life.
Designing for Sustainability and Aesthetics
The design of The Sojourner Truth Apartments at The Yard embodies a harmonious blend of modernity and tradition. The U-shaped layout, comprising three interconnected wings surrounding a central courtyard, fosters a sense of openness and community engagement. Embracing sustainable practices, the building utilizes prefabricated panelized wall systems of terracotta, ensuring durability and visual harmony with the historic campus architecture. The LEED-NC Silver certified structure boasts floor-to-ceiling windows for natural light, operable windows for ventilation, and energy-efficient fixtures, aligning with New Jersey’s stringent energy standards.
A Hub of Activity and Inclusion
The Yard serves as a dynamic hub for both university residents and the broader New Brunswick community. With ground-floor retail spaces, collaborative commons, fitness facilities, and open common rooms, the building fosters 24/7 activity and social interaction. Large airplane-hangar doors open onto the courtyard lawn, inviting visitors of all affiliations to enjoy the vibrant communal spaces. Notably, the project accommodates beloved food trucks, preserving the neighborhood’s culinary diversity and heritage.
Honoring a Legacy of Empowerment
Named after Sojourner Truth, the renowned abolitionist and women’s rights activist, the apartments pay homage to her legacy of resilience and empowerment. As a former slave owned by the family of Rutgers’ first president, Truth’s enduring spirit inspires a community committed to social justice and inclusivity.
The Sojourner Truth Apartments at The Yard represents more than just a student housing complex; it embodies a vision of sustainable, inclusive, and vibrant urban living, setting a new precedent for residential development at Rutgers University and beyond.
