A number of cottages and buildings, including Haven Hall, were demolished prior to construction. The flat-roofed building was designed in a cruciform shape. Dedication Hall, with its 32′ high ceiling with skylight, occupied the center of the building. When built, Newhouse I was dedicated to the study of print media. It held classrooms, photography darkrooms and studios, various labs, design studios, offices, a library and a public lounge.
In 1965, I.M. Pei received the American Institute of Architects’ National Honor Award for his design of Newhouse I.
List of classrooms:
| Newhouse I 101 | Newhouse I 406 |
| Newhouse I 102 | Newhouse I 408 |
| Newhouse I 212 | Newhouse I 409 |