Cozy-In-Class: Where to Warm Up After Being Out in the Cold
Apparently, Massachusetts is #1 in the country for "Most Ice Cream Eaten in the Winter". That doesn't mean it doesn't get cold, though! Winter in Boston can mean plenty of snow, slush, and freezing temperatures. But that only makes for an even cozier day once you're inside. Here are places in the SMFA I find myself sitting to warm up and relax after braving the outdoors.
#5: The Atrium
With a sunny, welcoming place like the atrium, it's hard to leave! It serves as the premiere hangout spot for all sorts of students over the lunch break, and if you're not afraid of heights, you might even venture beyond the first floor tables and hang out at the second floor tables or third floor walkway. (Tip: if you want to get warm after coming in from a snowy day, the heaters are against the glass doors towards the back!)
#4: The Sound Studio
Not an obvious choice, but one of my personal favorites. The sound lab is located in the basement, having just been upgraded and moved from the second floor a few years ago. It's a nice little space filled with synthesizers and theremins, and it has quite a relaxing feel to it. The whole room tends to get nice and cozy, but never stuffy!
#3: The Mezzanine
Ah, the mezzanine. The best place to work in quiet. The mezzanine is located between floors 2 and 3 on the B-side of the building, only accessible via the back staircase or elevator. I like calling it floor 9-and-three-quarters. It's a great space to decompress after a frigid walk, especially if you like your alone time!
#2: The Bookmaking Room
One of my earliest memories of the bookmaking studio comes from the Thanksgiving Lunch the school puts on every year. It was getting pretty crowded in the atrium, and a group of friends and I moved up to the bookmaking room to eat our lunches. It was a nice time, and such a great space! I love this room for its giant window and skylights, as well as its warm memories!
#1: The Library!
It would be ridiculous for any other space in the school to be in the #1-most-comfy slot! The library is a wonderland of books, art, and resources that come complete with comfy couches and warm sitting areas. They even have blankets and pillows if you feel inclined to take a nap between classes. All of this is only amplified by the warmth of the staff members!