Witte Residence Hall

Design Team
Nat Stein,AIA,LEED AP, NCARB (Principal in Charge); Steve Groth, CSI, CCS (Project Manager); Mark Paschke, AIA (Design Architect); Steve Wellenstein, Chris Love, AIA, NCARB, CSI, Debra Zins, AIA, LEED AP, CDT (Architects); Tara Christian, ASID, NCIDQ (Interior Design)

Witte Hall, an existing residence hall composed of two high-rise towers on top of a fully connected first floor and basement, underwent a renovation and addition that linked both towers on all floors and created a new 11th resident floor. The heating system, plumbing system, electrical system, doors, windows, utilities, building security, emergency generators, and fire pumps were replaced, and the fire sprinkler system was modified. The project included life safety and ADA/access upgrades, inside and outside the building, and enhanced move-in/move-out planning. The lower level and first-floor resident life, classroom, and office space were remodeled, along with two apartments for on-site managers. The project consolidates new elevators, key mechanical equipment, accessible resident entry, and resident life space into the new connecting tower. Interior finishes on all floors were updated, and new furnishings were added throughout. A unique feature of the design is the introduction of an opening between the first floor and lower level to visually connect the two stories and promote social connectivity.

One of the biggest challenges to overcome with Witte was that students and residence life staff occupied the entire building during the 30-month construction. The team worked to identify a precise phasing of activities to minimize disruption. The 11th-floor addition with connecting link was constructed to create surge space. Residents were moved to the completed floors as existing stories were turned over to the contractors. The shuffling of floors made it possible for all operations to continue uninterrupted.

The renovated Witte Hall shows how an out-of-date and tired residence hall with an undesirable reputation among students can be transformed into one of the most sought-after living destinations on campus.

Additional Information

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