4/4 FAST FACTS
| Project Type: | Student Housing, New Construction |
| Use: | Mixed-Use, Apartments |
| Location: | Bethlehem, PA |
| Team: | Serfass Construction (CM), Aptitude Development |
4/4 Architecture served as architect of record for the Marshall Valley Apartments, a seven-story, mixed-use apartment building completed by Serfass Construction, which opened in the Fall of 2025. The project adds student-housing to a growing Lehigh University population. In addition, Marshall Valley has played a role in the revitalization of the neighborhood around the South Bethlehem Library.
The project includes 76 apartment units designed for students, with retail space at street level, bringing new energy to the South Side. 4/4 Architecture was responsible for ensuring code compliance, reviewing and coordinating construction details, and designing all interior apartment unit layouts in collaboration with the developer and design team.
Located within the South Bethlehem Historic Conservation District, the project went through multiple reviews by the local historic commission. The massing and material selections contribute to a structure that is contemporary, yet feels right for this community.
Challenges and Requirements
- Historic District: Navigate multiple reviews with the South Bethlehem Historic Conservation District.
- Code compliance: Ensure all residential and mixed-use components met applicable building and accessibility codes.
- Coordination: Align design intent between the developer and local parties.
Kitchens are fully equipped with modern appliances, including an island with seating for roommates to share a meal.
APPROACH
- Interior planning: Designed apartment unit layouts tailored to student living needs and efficient space utilization.
- Material Input: Supported material decisions that fit within the historic buildings of the South Bethlehem while maintaining a contemporary identity.
- Context-sensitive design: Massing mimics the density around it, and makes the building feel compatible with its neighborhood.
Apartment layouts vary in terms of communal spaces, number of bedrooms and kitchen amenities. A key priority is to provide a space to gather and socialize.
RESULTS
- New student housing: Delivered 76 apartment units serving Lehigh University students.
- Activated streetscape: Building introduced ground-floor retail space that contributes to neighborhood activity and pedestrian engagement.
- Community revitalization: Supported ongoing redevelopment efforts surrounding the South Bethlehem Library and Lehigh University.
- Successful collaboration: Coordinated developer’s vision into successful project in historic South Bethlehem.
