This fall, Mason and Freeman Halls emerged with crisp new exteriors, renovated interiors and inviting outdoor spaces—all part of Blair’s broader efforts reimagining the heart of campus. Built in 1966 alongside the field known as “the Bowl”* and adjacent to Blair’s new Center for Health and Well-Being, the updated Mason and Freeman dorms reflect a renewed vision for student life on the hilltop. 

The buildings now feature facades of limestone, stone and brick as well as new windows. Designed to better complement neighboring architecture, the renovations also include outdoor spaces between the dorms, soon to be complete with patios, firepits and comfortable seating where students can relax and connect. 
 
Inside the dorms, students enjoy a number of upgrades including modern lighting, new carpeting and warm wood trim, as well as completely renovated bathrooms in both halls. Each dorm also now features a ground-floor bathroom, enhancing accessibility and adding convenience for everyone. 

The renovations are part of a larger initiative to revitalize the area around the Bowl—Blair’s historic central athletic field. “Given many team’s preference for playing on turf, we currently use the Bowl only about three times per year for student life events, such as Super Sunday, Blairstock or the finale of ‘The Game,’” explains Head of School Peter G. Curran. But students from decades past may remember a different experience. 

“The Bowl used to be the heartbeat of campus on game day,” recalls Dean of Enrollment Teddy Wenner ’96, who remembers the space being a hub for athletics from his days as a student. That shift reflects broader changes in athletics as a whole. “Colleges largely use turf now, so coaches at the next level expect to see athletes who are used to playing on turf,” Mr. Wenner explains. “Our coaches are trying to prepare our kids for the game as it’s played at the college level. You have to practice how you play.” 

To that end, the Bowl will be resurfaced with new turf next summer. Once complete, it will host field hockey, soccer and lacrosse games, bringing action back to the center of campus. With patios overlooking the field, Mr. Curran anticipates a lively scene.“It’s going to be a lot of fun for residents of Annie, Mason and Freeman to watch games now from their rooms and the new outdoor seating areas,” he says.

Taken together, the dorm renovations, the recently opened Center for Health and Well-Being and the transformation of the Bowl will mark a new era for the heart of Blair’s campus. “With all new landscaping and upgraded facilities, it’s going to be one of the premier athletic sites in the state,” adds Mr. Wenner. “It’s going to become a signature piece of Blair’s beautiful campus.” 

*The field was renamed “Marcial Field” in 1984.