The Academy is a full-time living and working community. To optimize movement between the two, many students choose the convenience of residing in the Academy dorms. This allows students to easily go from studio to dorm at all hours of the day and night and to share living and social spaces with students from all departments. All of our rooms are modestly furnished with XL size twin beds, dressers, and desks; community bathrooms are located on each floor. All dorms have a common lounge area and a central laundry facility is located in one dorm.
Dorms & Dining
Dorms & Dining
Sharing meals at Cranbrook is a long held tradition – from the all-Academy welcome dinner along the Triton Pools to casual lunches around the studio kitchen table. Every department has a kitchen that is the epicenter of each studio and used extensively by those who live on campus. Cranbrook also has two dining halls serving three meals a day with wide options for many dietary preferences. Both dining halls are located nearby, only a short walk or bike ride from your studio. The Cranbrook Institute of Science also offers a small café for all of your coffee and snack and light breakfast or lunch needs. A short drive to Downtown Birmingham has many dining options, restaurants, bars, coffee shops and grocery stores to fill in the gap. Meals at Cranbrook are a moment to relax, discuss, collaborate, conspire, and then get back to work in the studio.
Dorms
Dormitory rooms are simple and range from 10 x 11 ft. to 11 x 13 ft. They are equipped with a XL twin bed and a dresser per occupant, a shared desk, window blinds, and a single closet. Bed linens, blankets, pillows, and towels are not provided. Community bathrooms are located on each floor. A wireless internet connection is available throughout the dorms and studios.
The Academy’s dormitories provide an affordable living option:
| 2024-2025 Academic Year (billed by semester) | ||
| Room Type | Per Semester | Per Year |
| Single Occupancy Room | $3,551.50 | $7,103.00 |
| A one-time, refundable $200 damage deposit will be assessed on the initial billing invoice. | ||
Dining on Campus
Department kitchen facilities
A kitchen for student use is located in each department. Students who live on campus and off campus may cook their meals in their department’s kitchen.
Cranbrook Educational Community Dining Halls
Meals in the two dining halls on campus. The Cranbrook Upper School Dining Hall is located adjacent to the Academy. Kingswood Dining Hall is located a short walk away from the Academy. Service is provided based upon the Upper Schools schedule with school closures and private events taking place during the academic year.
Monday – Friday
Breakfast: 7:00am – 8:30am
Lunch: 11:15am – 1:30pm
Dinner
Dining Halls 5:15pm – 7:15pm
Saturday – Sunday
Continental Breakfast 10:00am – 11:00am
Brunch 11:00am – 1:00pm
Dinner 5:00pm – 6:15pm
Reflections Café at the Cranbrook Institute of Science
Coffee, snacks, and light meals are available for purchase on a cash basis at the Reflections Cafe, located within walking distance of the Academy.
Monday: Closed
Tuesday-Saturday: 11am-4:30pm
Sunday: 12:00-4:00pm