The Perfect Pad

What's the coolest room on campus? After an extensive-yet-informal survey of Dartmouth living spaces, we think the choice is clear: it's a barn. Or used to be. Room 15 at Alpha Chi Alpha fraternity originally served as a hayloft in the early 1900s, when horses were stabled on the floor below. Today "the barn," as residents call it, is a 400s quare-foot triple with a full bath. Layers of posters, flags and other memorabilia— accumulated by occupants over the years—adorn every inch of wall space. Christmas lights blink and fade on the ceiling, the mellow sounds of Phish emanate from the stereo and, with three couches, visitors are common. "Its size, unique decor and central location above the main social hall makes the room a haven for friends, acquaintances and vagabonds," says fall-term resident Timothy Carpenter '01 (left). "It is the barn, and I will look back upon it fondly."