Washburn University, Robert J. Dole Hall
Topeka, Kansas
Washburn’s need for a new law building was driven by changes in legal education that call for greater flexibility and efficiency to provide the practice-ready training that today’s law students require. The architectural language of the building is a response to campus context and history, drawing on architectural traditions to create a familiar yet distinctive aesthetic that strengthens the campus and provides visibility for one of its most important programs.
The Robert J. Dole Hall supports quality and efficiency with spaces that serve multiple functions and can adapt to future programmatic changes. Courtrooms double as lecture classrooms, a large classroom is divisible and reconfigurable, smaller classrooms have a variety of possible arrangements, and meeting spaces are accessible and available for seminar classes and group study use. The law library holds about 50,000 volumes on site. Less frequently accessed materials are off site, freeing up more space for study rooms and open seating.
The building brings increased prominence, functionality and flexibility to the law school so that growth may be easily accommodated, ensuring a long-term home.
Additional Information
Associated Firm
Bartlett & West (Civil Engineering)
Cost per Sq Ft
$600.00
Featured in
2025 Educational Interiors Showcase
Interior category
Classrooms
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