Irby and Phelps Halls were named for William Ratcliffe Irby and Esmond Phelps. Irby, a New Orleans businessman and President of the Board of Administrators, was instrumental in establishing Tulane's central purchasing system. Phelps succeeded Mr. Irby as President of the Board in 1926. Both buildings have exterior corridors that wrap around the building on all sides and promote resident interaction.

Irby and Phelps Halls are located on either side of Bruff Quad and are comprised of four-room suites with a shared bathroom. Each suite has eight bed spaces and the hall is coed by suite. All rooms are double occupancy with large picture windows. The furniture is moveable and each room has cable TV and Internet access. Study lounges and kitchen facilities are located in each hall. Both Irby and Phelps are home primarily to second-year and transfer students.