The original section was a three-story-high, unembellished brick structure with arched windows and a modest entryway.

The building later was ornamented with the addition of pediment detail, a cornice molding, corner quoins, and an enlarged entryway.

[2] Throughout its existence Packard Hall was plagued with structural problems, including moisture seepage and bulging walls.

Fire hazard required students to move out in 1901, since wood stoves and fireplaces were not deemed safe for the building.

During the 1930s, it was considered to be demolished to make way for a large graduate hall that would accommodate the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy.