The success of the Executive Education program relies on the continued interaction and exchange of ideas between participants. It was vital that the architecture of the building reinforce these principles in its physical design. On the first floor, a reception area, lounge, library, and interior courtyard offer ample opportunity for social activities and gatherings. Above, on floors two through six, the residential component consists of 160 single bedrooms and ten guestrooms. Four suites of eight residents each occupy every floor. Bedrooms were designed to be small, yet comfortable--the intent being to encourage residents to gather and study together in the common areas. The focal point of each suite is a lounge equipped with kitchenette, sitting area, and study zone--again, to encourage residents to gather and engage in group discussion. All resident suites capitalize on river and courtyard views.

The exterior design of McArthur Hall interprets Harvard's collegiate Georgian architecture with a contemporary edge. The classical massing of forms reduces the visual scale of the building, and architectural elements such as the pitched roof, dormer and bay windows, white trim, and chimneys further invoke McArthur Hall's architectural lineage. The use of lead-coated copper roofing departs from the traditional use of slate and successfully distinguishes McArthur Hall from surrounding buildings.