Cornell's West Campus mixes the intricate stonework and elaborate arches of "University Gothic" with fifties-era brick dorms, nicknamed "U-halls", built to accommodate WWII veterans who came to campus on the G.I. Bill.

Extensive renovations will transform the area in coming years, replacing the brick U-halls with residential colleges echoing the Gothic architecture, arches, passageways, and green spaces of the original buildings.

The new buildings will house upperclassmen and transfer students. Each college will also provide its own dining hall and library, as well as an apartment for an on-site faculty family and rooms for graduate student tutors.

A nearby student recreation center will include a cafe, a fitness center and climbing wall, a convenience store, and a gymnasium.