Catherine Commons represents a thoughtfully designed student housing development in Ithaca, New York. Designed by ikon.5 architects, the project comprises six residential buildings across two adjacent sites — Catherine North and Catherine South — strategically positioned along College Avenue.

The student housing development offers a variety of unit configurations — from studios to three-bedroom apartments — each featuring private bedrooms and bathrooms alongside shared amenities such as fitness centers, courtyards, and retail spaces. What distinguishes this project from conventional student housing is its intentional urban integration, with double-height public spaces at street level that foster community engagement while maintaining a welcoming scale. ikon.5’s architectural approach carefully balances density with neighborhood sensitivity, as seen in Catherine South’s stepped massing and vernacular-inspired elements that harmonize with the surrounding residential fabric. Material selections, including patterned terracotta brick, metal panels, and varied window treatments, create visual interest and demonstrate high-quality construction standards.

Image Credit: Brad Feinknopf