Code Exemption Sought

The Cambridge Board of Appeals yesterday heard the University's petitions for building code exemption to permit seven-foot, six-inch ceilings in the new Leverett House buildings.

After a brief discussion with University representatives, the Board took the matter under advisement, and will announce its decision later. Members of the Board expressed no opposition to the exemption, and will almost certainly grant the request.

A similar exemption was granted last year to permit the lower ceilings in Quincy House. City codes normally require ceilings at least eight feet high.

Representing the University at the hearing were James Deveney, Assistant Superintendent of Buildings and Grounds in the College Area, and Fellowes Davis '42 and Richard Sawler of Shepley, Richardson, Bulfinch, and Abbot, architects of the buildings.

Board members noted architectural trends to lower ceilings and pointed out that efficient ventilating systems diminished the necessity for high ceilings.