Ball State University, Studebaker West Renovation

Muncie, Indiana

Firm

Scholer Corporation

Client

Ball State University

Area

244,000 sq.ft.

Total Cost

$13,950,000

Completion Date

07/2000

Studebaker West is home to more than 900 undergraduates on the campus of Ball State University. Completed in the mid-1960s, the high-rise facility no longer met the needs of today’s students. Because of its desirable location, the building was targeted for a complete modernization.
Building upgrades started with the creation of a new central main entrance and elevator tower. Consolidating the four original entrances, the new entrance allows easy access for disabled students, provides greater control and security for the building and affords elevator access to the building’s nine floors.
The first floor and basement levels provide student-activity spaces for residents and guests. Lower-level amenities include a fitness room, recreational lounge, 40-station computer lab, resident laundry and a future photography darkroom. The hall desk is adjacent to the main entrance and is flanked by open lounges, a large meeting room, and the Micro Cafe, a “grab-n-go” dining facility. Students’ rooms were modernized with air conditioning, high-speed Internet access, individual phone lines and modular furniture.