Bobb Hall Construction Odors Require Closed Windows
Students living in the Evanston hall should keep windows closed during the day to block fumes from ongoing roof work.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Home Renovation
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Residents in Evanston's Bobb Hall reported ongoing construction odors and restricted window access in October 2026. The issue stems from renovation work at the adjoining McCulloch Hall, which currently impacts the living conditions of more than 400 undergraduate students.
Why it matters
The multiyear renovation project at the Bobb-McCulloch complex aims to modernize facilities, but the scale of roof and utility work can temporarily affect air quality for occupants. Northwestern University is currently balancing these large-scale building upgrades with the needs of residents living in the adjacent facility.
The construction project involves over 400 undergraduate students in the Bobb-McCulloch complex. While noisy work is restricted until 9 a.m., residents were advised to keep windows closed during the day to mitigate asphalt odors from the new roof vapor barrier and insulation.
The players
Northwestern University
The institution managing the multiyear, large-scale renovation project of the Bobb-McCulloch residential complex.
Residential Services
The university department responsible for managing student housing logistics and overseeing daily construction impacts.
The details
The construction process involves the installation of a new roof, which requires vapor barrier and insulation materials that produce a noticeable asphalt odor. Because of the building's layout, residents in Bobb Hall are currently required to keep windows closed during the day to prevent these fumes from entering their living spaces. This work is part of a larger, multiyear renovation encompassing new elevators and updated mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems.
Timeline
1955: Bobb and McCulloch halls were originally built.
2025-26 academic year: Bobb Hall underwent extensive renovations.
October 2026: Residents reported construction odors.
August 2027: The full complex renovation is scheduled for completion.
The Home Front
This project represents a significant effort to modernize the Bobb-McCulloch complex, which dates back to 1955. It follows a decade of documented maintenance hurdles, including the 2016 mold report in Bobb Hall, reflecting the common challenges of upgrading mid-century residential infrastructure.
Occupants should continue to monitor university communications regarding the 9 a.m. noise start time and keep windows closed while roofing crews are active. If you notice unusual odors or persistent noise issues, report them to Residential Services for updates on the specific work schedule.
The takeaway
Large-scale renovations in older buildings often require temporary adjustments to airflow and noise management. Residents should keep windows shut as advised until the roof work concludes and stay alert for local notices from Residential Services about construction phases.
Further reading
For more on managing disruptions during property upgrades, visit Home Renovation.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Daily Northwestern.
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