Baylor University, South Russell Hall

Waco, Texas

Firm

KSQ Design

Client

Baylor University

Area

62,333 sq.ft.

Total Cost

$8,400,000

Completion Date

08/2014

KSQ Architects set out to renovate South Russell Hall at Baylor University with two goals in mind: update the 50-year-old residence hall into a modern environment attractive to students; and create an Education Living-Learning Center—a community for students studying to become educators.
The 222-bed transformation features double student rooms, community baths, “fish bowl” glass-encased study rooms, a classroom, and a “reflection room” that offers a quiet place to pray or meditate.
Natural light was brought into the corridors to keep them from feeling dark. Community kitchens and a recreation and game room area in the basement enhance the sense of community. A central, open staircase connects the three levels to the basement, and a new foyer and centralized front desk area serve as organizing elements for the space.
The faculty-in-residence apartment has all the amenities one might find off campus and offers opportunities for positive faculty-student interaction.
The renovation delivered the university’s objectives on an $8.5 million budget. It demonstrated that good design and high impact need not break the campus bank.