Ohio University – McCracken Hall Addition & Renovation

Project Narrative

“If we recognize the building after we’re done, we’ll be asking ourselves what we did wrong.” Dean Middleton’s challenge was met with a design response respectful of the campus’ Georgian architecture while creating a compelling home for the College of Education. The architecture and interior environment now reflects the creative, collaborative, and contemporary pedagogy taught within. The existing building (circa 1959) was completely renovated. An L-shaped Georgian style addition marks the corner of a new North Green envisioned as an Arts and Education focused center for the campus. A two-story addition of glass and stone is nestled into this L as an architectural transition for future structures and site features.
The original 3-story building included a usable attic space. Vertical circulation relocated to be central connects this captured fourth floor of the existing building. Physical and visual connectivity of floors was also created. First and second floors were connected with a double height space animated by a large connecting stair with tiered student collaboration spaces. Third and fourth floors are connected with a floor opening giving view to the preserved wood and steel roof structure above. Student focus was the dominant theme throughout. Classrooms included active learning technology support. An outdoor terrace adjacent to a green roof is an exterior amenity served with technology for use as a classroom.
The facility realized through this team preserves the 50-year heritage of McCracken Hall while representing education in the 21st century.

                                           

Project Details

Submission Category

Building Architecture- Large Scale (>10,000 sf)

Date of Completion

January, 2017