Oxford, OH
Discovery
The 120-year-old Western College for Women was acquired by Miami University in 1974. Joining the University’s College of Arts and Science, Western Campus features some of the University’s most historic facilities. 40 years later, Miami faced a consistently growing student population in need of more campus residence halls. As the first design-build education project in Ohio, the team was challenged to design and build three new Western Campus residence halls that would acknowledge the architectural heritage of the main campus, while evoking a unique design aesthetic, all within a fast-tracked project schedule.
Creation
Situated alongside the newly-established pedestrian walkways, Beechwoods, Stonebridge and Hillcrest Halls are organized to enhance the open, pastoral character of Western Campus. Stonebridge stands closest to the heart of campus and tells the story of the main campus’ traditional Georgian, red-brick architecture before evolving into the more contemporary, stone-clad architecture of Western Campus across Beechwoods and arriving at the stunning modern design of Hillcrest, the furthest into Western Campus. The interiors support this design evolution through distinct lighting and flooring selections.
Beyond an additional 720 beds total, each hall showcases student life at its finest through open-suite style living space and first-floor community areas that feature expanses of glass providing sweeping views that bring the indoor and outdoor environments together through light and activity. Common areas include full kitchens, collaborative studies and crackling fireplaces to warm up after long walks across campus during Ohio’s chilly winters.
Designed for LEED Silver certification, the Western Campus Residence Halls reflect the university’s commitment to the environment and the future of its students.
Services
Recognition
Cincinnati, OH