Oxford, OH
Discovery
From traditional corridor residence halls to apartment-style living, Miami University offers something for everyone when it comes to on-campus housing. The university’s policy requires all first- and second-year students to live on campus, but growing student enrollment projections were making this a difficult policy to uphold. Renting off-campus space to accommodate new students served as a temporary remedy, but Miami was in need of a permanent solution. The question became, “Where can these new residence halls be built?”
Creation
The addition of Withrow and Presidents Halls’ greatly influenced Miami’s ability to accommodate their increasing student population. Designed to meet students’ rising quality expectations, the two new residence halls’ combined 630 beds further assist the University in remaining competitive in the higher education marketplace.
The first of these buildings, Withrow Hall, was developed on the previous site of Withrow Court, the original University gymnasium and recreation center dating back to 1932. The original stone columns, entablature and cartouche ornaments were salvaged and incorporated into the new west entrance, supported by a newly-crafted stone base and cupola reflecting the original. A full-service Starbucks located on the lower level gives a nod to the site’s heritage through a photo display of events held at the original Withrow Court and letters about its opening.
Situated northeast of Withrow is Presidents Hall. One of Miami’s largest residence halls, Presidents includes a mix of one-, two- and three-bedroom spaces grouped around shared and private restrooms, allowing for gender-neutral assignments.
In addition to student rooms, both new halls include small classrooms and study rooms, offices, energy efficient mechanical systems and LED lighting systems that support the university’s sustainable initiatives and earned both buildings LEED Silver certification.
Services
Recognition
Miami University, Senior Project Manager
Greendale, IN
Lexington, KY