The Julis Romo Rabinowitz Building and the Louis A. Simpson International Building (formally 20 Washington Road) renovation project repurposed the former Frick Chemistry Laboratory and brought together academic and administrative areas that were dispersed across the University campus.
The 200,000 square feet of space is divided into two complementary areas, one a home to economics and one to international initiatives. Each area has a distinct architectural identity and its own entrance. The new single location for the Department of Economics consolidates the department and realizes the University's goal of having all of Princeton's economists together in one place. Several international programs and the Princeton Institute for International and Regional Studies are all under one roof. The new location brings international groups together as well as provides a single, convenient location for students exploring international programs.
The structure’s interior was renovated extensively, while the historic character of the exterior of the building and primary interior spaces, such as the entry and the second-floor library, were preserved. The building features new classrooms, offices and meeting spaces, and two communal atria. The atrium on the south side of the building encloses the existing stone facade courtyard and connects to Scudder Plaza and the other social science buildings in the neighborhood - Robertson, Corwin, Wallace, Fisher and Bendheim halls.
This project meets or exceeds Princeton's sustainability standards. The University is seeking LEED certification, a standard established by the U.S. Green Building Council (link is external), for the buildings.