Oakland University Varner Hall

Recognizing the need to update an existing 1970’s building, Oakland University selected Stantec to lead a master plan development for renovations and an addition to the school’s primary music, theater and dance education facility. Major elements of the master plan included the Stantec-led investigation into the HVAC and other building systems. Stantec’s team of planners, engineers and designers developed creative design interventions, making a significant impact to the functionality and public-facing spaces in an existing facility with a limited budget. This included adding new lobbies to help clarify building circulation, address accessibility issues, and also create a new front door to the building. The two 4,500-square-foot additions to the west and south ends of the building create new elegant entryways. The western addition enhances the entrance to the Recital Hall and creates pre-function and lobby space for students and patrons. The addition to the south increases the Studio Theatre back-of-house area with a renovated Black Box Theater, Reception Lobby and back-of-house spaces.