By Kaitlyn Bell
Renovations are a common sight at Cornell, and one of the most significant projects recently completed on North Campus is the update to Balch Hall. The all-women’s dorm, known for its historic Gothic architecture, has undergone a transformation that blends its historic aesthetic with a modern element, creating a unique living experience for students.
Situated front and center on North Campus, Balch Hall has always been an important part of the Cornell landscape. Students commuting between Central and North Campus often pass through the iconic arches, but what many don’t realize is the strong sense of community that has been fostered within its walls.
The recent renovations, which temporarily relocated residents to Barbara McClintock Hall, have renovated both the physical space and the communal atmosphere. Now that students have returned, many are expressing their satisfaction with the updates and the sense of belonging they find at Balch.
“I feel a lot more connected being in a community of all women,” said Jin Kim ‘28. “Everyone is so supportive, and at least in my hallway, we get dinner together often and talk in the lounge about our classes.”
Balch’s location, just minutes away from much of campus, is another perk for its residents. “The location is amazing since it's practically five minutes away from everything,” added Kim. “Because it’s renovated, I feel like everyone tries their best to keep Balch as clean as possible.”
Despite the modernization, the dorm still maintains its quiet, studious environment—an advantage for those looking for a calmer atmosphere compared to some of the more social dorms on campus.
“Socially, it’s definitely nothing like Donlon, but we all talk to each other often and get dinner together,” Kim said. “Since it’s an all-women’s dorm, it’s quiet at night, so I have no trouble studying in my own room without distractions.”
Similarly to the newer dorms on campus each room in Balch now “features all-new energy-efficient windows, air vents connected to a modern HVAC system to improve comfort in summer as well as winter, new flooring, new lighting, and for the first time, a thermostat in each room” as stated by Cornell University.
They have also maintained many of the historic pieces of Balch Hall including from the room Cornell alum and Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg '54 lived in her residency in Balch Hall. This architecture along with the tight knit community make it a nice blend between the two types of dorms offered on North Campus.
For residents like Ridwanah Haque ‘28, Balch has made the transition to college life smoother.
“I can always find someone to study with, eat with, or just chat with,” Haque shared. “I feel more comfortable and connected being in an all-women’s dorm.”
The question of whether Balch’s historic charm will continue to foster a social scene, especially when compared to newer dorms, is one that remains to question. But for current residents, the blend of history and modernity is working.
“Overall I wouldn’t want to be anywhere but Balch,” Haque said. “I’m going to try to get this hall in my later years as well. There’s always people in the lounge working or on weekends watching or playing something on the TV.”
With its renewed facilities and strong sense of community, Balch Hall remains an important part of student life at Cornell, offering a supportive environment in a building that honors its historic roots. As Kim put it, “I really love Balch and its community, so I am definitely going to try to stay here for the rest of my four years at Cornell.”
Kaitlyn Bell is a freshman in the School of Industrial and Labor Relations. She can be reached at kgb57@cornell.edu.
