Meet the Residence Halls of Chatham
Chatham University is famously home to residence halls that were formerly the mansions of quintessential Pittsburgh players, including Andrew Mellon. Over the years, these mansions have been converted to accommodate today’s students, maintaining their unique flair while offering WiFi, kitchens, laundry rooms, and other living essentials. Each residence hall, whether newly constructed or a longtime staple, boasts its own charming assets and advantages. Allow us to introduce you to the many residence halls of Chatham—
Fickes Hall
Ideal for: first-years, sophomores, and seniors—thanks to adorable apartment units
Fickes Hall has long been the place to be for Chatham first-years. Because of its great location, ample study space, and roomy, well-lit rooms, we have to recommend it to those living at Chatham for the first time. Fickes was built in 1927 and renovated into a residence hall in 1946. It sits on the southeast hill of campus and is just a short walk to Anderson Dining Hall, classes, the Athletic Fitness Center, and the shuttle stop. Residents have access to plenty of amenities, including front and back patios, sunny study space, and a variety of spacious rooms, including both single and multiple occupancy options. Fickes also offers apartment living for upperclass students. Just keep your eye out for its rumored ghostly hauntings!
Laughlin Hall
Ideal for: first-years, sophomores, athletes, and students interested in women’s studies
Laughlin Hall, built in 1912, boasts some of the most stunning architecture you can find on campus, including wood-paneled closets, stained glass windows, and exposed brick walls. It was originally home to James Laughlin, the president of Chatham’s first Board of Trustees. In 1967, Laughlin was donated to Chatham and became a popular home for students. Nowadays, it is Chatham's women-only residence hall and home to the Women's Leadership Living & Learning Community, which is available to students interested in learning about and engaging with women's studies and gender equity. Laughlin offers single, double, triple, and quad occupancy rooms, spacious study areas, and breathtaking fall views!
Rea House
Ideal for: first-years and sophomores
The Julia and James Rea House was donated to Chatham in the 1960s after being constructed in 1912 as the home of James C. Rea. Much like Laughlin, Rea features rich architecture and cozy spaces to study, read, or hang out with friends, including outdoor patios, a spacious front porch, and a stunning sunroom. Rea House is co-ed by floor and houses students in single, double, and triple occupancy rooms. Plus, its just a quick walk to Mellon Building, Anderson Dining Hall, the Athletic Fitness Center, and the Art & Design Center.
Dilworth Hall
Ideal for: first-years, sophomores, and athletes
Dilworth Hall was constructed in 1959 and has what many would consider the most prime location on campus. It is nearly an equidistant walk to any campus amenity you might need, including Anderson Dining Hall, Cafe Rachel, the JKM Library, and the Athletic Fitness Center. It’s a perfect spot for athletes with early morning practices or late night games. Dilworth houses students in doubles on the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd floors and has two four-person suites on the ground floor. It also boasts a spacious front patio perfect for studying or soaking up the sun!
Chatham Apartments
Ideal for: sophomores, juniors, and seniors
The Chatham Apartments offer two-bedroom spots for upperclass undergraduate students, and are located at the intersection of Fifth and Maryland Avenue just outside of campus. The apartments offer private kitchens, dining areas, bathrooms, and living areas and are located directly in front of a bus stop that offers transportation to Oakland, Lawrenceville, East Liberty, and more. The apartments are a great option for students who want to feel more independent while remaining within walking distance of their classes and campus amenities.
Woodland Hall
Ideal for: anyone
Woodland Hall has been around since 1909 and is not only a centrally located residence hall—it’s home to Cafe Rachel, the Chatham Bookstore, Bike Works (our on-campus bike repair shop), Information Technology, Student Affairs, and the Chatham Art Gallery. It’s also the closest residence hall to classes and the JKM Library. So if you’re looking to sleep in and still make it to class on time, this is most likely the spot for you. Woodland offers singles, doubles, and triples as well as elevator accommodation. You’ll often find students lounging in the spacious sun porch—complete with a pool table and plenty of plush furniture.
Linzer Apartments
Ideal for: sophomores, juniors, and seniors
Much like the Chatham Apartments, the Linzer Apartments sit along Fifth Avenue and allow residents quick access to the Shadyside campus, the Chatham shuttles, and the Port Authority bus line. Linzer features furnished one-bedroom apartments that can accommodate one to two residents. They also boast stunning wood floors, full kitchenettes, private bathrooms, and in-building access to laundry amenities. These apartments afford students a quiet, independent space that is close to campus.
Pelletreau Apartments
Ideal for: sophomores, juniors, and seniors
Sure, come to Pelletreau Apartments for the great location, but you might just stay for its chic, solar-powered balconies. Pelletreau is home to six buildings separated by a beautiful courtyard and enclosed by ample trees. These relatively large apartments offer residents two bedrooms and a full furnished space that can accommodate up to three students. Situated between the Chatham Apartments and the Linzer Apartments, Pelletreau is also a great spot for students using the bus line or the Chatham shuttle. And like all Fifth Avenue offerings, it is just a quick walk to campus and to the heart of Shadyside’s business district.
Interested in seeing more? Explore all of our residence halls with immersive video tours on our website.