Crowd Source

Earlier this year, the film The Brutalist and its star actor Adrien Brody inspired a Philadelphia Inquirer article about the Philadelphia area’s “mid-century wonders” and their real-life architects, including Louis Kahn’s Erdman Hall. The College’s Facebook post about this story drew more than 200 comments as alums chimed in with their memories, opinions, and feelings—the full spectrum from love to hate—for Erdman.

“My absolute favorite dorm on campus. It may look cold from the outside, but it truly was my sanctuary both years I lived there.” – Kimberly Vonn ’07 

“My father, who was an architect and student of Louis Kahn, really wanted me to live in Erdman my freshman year, but I was very happy in Rock!" – Cynthia Fissell ’76

“Hated it, fled for Brecon (but appreciate Kahn's vision now FROM AFAR).” – Chaia Milstein ’94

“When I was there, we nicknamed it Azkaban.” – Clara McCafferty Wright ’19

“I was one of the original residents and lived in that room right over the front door!” – Trudi Goheen Swain ’66

“Loved it!! I used to play my guitar and sing in one of the living room balconies. No one could see me, and the acoustics were eerie and wonderful.” – Wendy Warren Keebler ’78

“I definitely got lost a few times trying to find my room or the exit.” – Jenna Los ’01