Our design of Donaldson Commons attempts to expand the capacity of modern architecture to encompass intimacy, warmth, charm, and historical continuity, most notably the tradition of the Yale College system in which the interior courtyard becomes the dominant void and the buildings act as walls of enclosure.

Our approach reflects principles we have developed through our experience on college campuses, which are based on the psychological effects of experiencing architecture in academic settings.

The unselfconsciousness of a sidewalk cafe contributed to the creation of a benign setting in which students can observe each other, socialize, or choose to be alone. The clear ordering of spaces allows them to proceed from one main entry to a common hall or "street" which provides choices of dining spaces. A variety of dining areas offers freedom of choice, among them: communal refectory, smaller dining rooms, and bay window alcoves. Because the average human head is eight inches high, the design utilizes eight-inch tiers to enable students to see each other across a large space. This fosters a sense of both casual contact and intimacy.

The scale of the building respects the scale of the neighborhood. The use of natural materials gives the Commons durability that has allowed it to age gracefully. The 350-seat dining hall resulted from the remodeling of a 100-seat dining hall that was formerly a divinity school chapel, and the addition of a new wing.