Opened: 1969
Renovated: August 2019Architects: TreanorHL Architects
The Woods House residence hall at Missouri State University in Springfield, constructed in 1969, was very much of its time. Ten stories tall, with cinder block walls, a flat front, and rows of identical windows, it was created with efficiency in mind. Over time, it became one of the least popular halls on campus, but two recent renovations have brought the hall into the present day with a number of upgrades to building performance and the student experience. Perhaps most impressive, though, was the fact that all renovations occurred over two separate summer breaks meaning that no rooms had to be taken offline.
The first phase of the renovation began after architects completed a thorough study. New finishes, lighting, and closets were installed throughout the building. A new HVAC system was installed along with new windows to improve thermal efficiency. While the total capacity was reduced to 344 beds, the renovations provided additional community-building space. And traditional community bathrooms were converted into individual bathrooms – featuring a shower, toilet, sink, and mirror in a locked stall – clustered on each floor. This choice enabled Woods House to become the campus’s first coed community-style hall.
During the renovation’s second phase, the building’s entrance was updated, enlarged, and made more secure. Apartment space for the resident director and assistant directors was updated. The most dramatic improvement came as the top floor of the building was overhauled to create an updated student gathering space complete with a recreation room, computer lab, media room, community kitchen, laundry, music practice room, and meeting rooms.
— James A. Baumann
