Alfred Lerner Hall: Columbia University's Deconstructivist Student Hub
Alfred Lerner Hall serves as the student center, or students' union, of Columbia University. Named in honor of Al Lerner, who significantly contributed to its funding, the building occupies a prominent place on the university's historic Morningside Heights campus in New York City.
A Modern Landmark
Designed by deconstructivist architect Bernard Tschumi, who was then the dean of Columbia's Graduate School of Architecture, Planning and Preservation, Lerner Hall opened its doors in 1999. It replaced the former student center, Ferris Booth Hall, which had served the university from 1960 to 1996. Interestingly, the cafeteria within Lerner Hall retains the name Ferris Booth, and, in contrast to the larger cafeteria in John Jay Hall, it exclusively uses plastic silverware and paper plates.
Architectural Vision and Context
Lerner Hall's design attempts to reconcile its presence within the context of the surrounding neoclassical McKim, Mead, and White buildings while simultaneously forging its own identity. The building incorporates redbrick cladding and proportions that align with the street wall of the university buildings along Broadway. However, it also features a vast glass wall facing the campus, fabricated by Eiffel Constructions Metalliques, a descendant of the firm responsible for the Eiffel Tower.
Key Features and Spaces
Lerner Hall houses both a cinema and an auditorium, both named in honor of Roone Arledge, a Columbia alumnus renowned for his achievements in sports broadcasting and television news.
Critical Reception and Design Controversies
Even before its completion, Lerner Hall faced considerable criticism. The escalating ramps, intended as a social meeting place, have largely failed to fulfill this purpose. Instead, they consume valuable space and impede movement between floors. The large rectangular void created by the ramps in the building's interior is a primary target of criticism, as many argue that this space could be better utilized for student and study areas. This design gives Lerner Hall a doughnut shape, allowing one to see from the fifth floor all the way down to the first.
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Space Constraints and Administrative Challenges
Due to space limitations, few student activities have dedicated offices, with most receiving only locker space. The building's layout, particularly in the administrative areas, has been described as labyrinthine. Some critics have also suggested that the building further isolates Columbia from the surrounding community.
Student Life and Activities
Despite the criticisms, Lerner Hall remains a central hub for social events throughout the academic year. The ramps have become a place for students to study and for organizations to advertise.
Financial Aspects
Lerner Hall's construction cost approximately $85 million. This was partially funded by donors, who contributed $35 million ($25 million from Alfred Lerner, $6 million from Roone Arledge, and over $1 million each from the Booth and Satow families). Barnes & Noble and Dining Services contributed $6 million to build out their spaces. The remaining $44 million was financed through 24-year bonds at a 6 percent interest rate.
Reprogramming and Evolving Spaces
Since its opening, several spaces within Lerner Hall have been repurposed, reflecting changes in needs and uses. The piano lounge, named for the grand piano near the entrance, is a popular, sometimes noisy, study spot. The sixth floor of Lerner Hall has been a source of contention between students and the administration. After debate, the space was opened as the new office of the Dean of Students, as well as the Office of Judicial Affairs & Community Standards and the Office of Financial Aid.
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