University of Illinois

Opportunity: In order to provide improved living facilities for 3,600 first and second year students, the University of Illinois sought to construct ten new residence halls, as well as consolidate current dining and residential support spaces all as part of a multi-year implementation plan that would realize no loss of current bed-count.

Solution: The grand tradition of American campus planning is advanced in the new redevelopment plan featuring landscaped courtyards linked by informal walkways around a shared “common green.” The new 144,000 square foot Student Dining & Residential Programs Building, replacing two existing dining facilities, will be one of the largest such facilities in the country. Residence Hall One features double occupancy, suite-style rooms, semi-private bathrooms.

Value: With sustainable featues including solar thermal energy, rain gardens, and green roofs, this project sets a new standard for University residential housing, and is pursuing LEED Silver certification. Residence Hall One also includes Beckwith Hall, providing accessible living spaces for 26 students with severe physical disabilities and their personal assistants.