SCUP/AIA-CAE Excellence in Architecture Addition,
Merit Award

Kenyon College for Peirce Hall, with Gund Partnership; also The Albert M. Higley Company; Stefura Associates; LeMessurier Consultants; Syska Hennessy Group, Inc.; Grenald Waldron Associates; Ricca Newmark Design

 
photo by David Lamb

    
photos by David Lamb

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Peirce Hall, a 1929 Gothic Revival building, is the main dining hall at Kenyon College and one of the college’s iconic buildings. It evolved through additions in the 1950s, 60s, and 80s. In 2004, thorough renovation and expansion was needed.

Goals included reinforcing campus community by consolidating dining facilities; expanding the local food program; improving operations and efficiency, new meal delivery options, and an on-campus composting program.

Kenyon advances sustainability locally and regionally through their collaborative initiative with “Food for Thought,” a joint venture that creates markets for local foods and provides students access to local produce and food products.

The project presented an educational opportunity to teach students about food sources, local economy, recycling, and integration of sustainability into everyday student life.

Kenyon College President S. Georgia Nugent says, “This project restored one of Kenyon’s irreplaceable landmarks to its previous grandeur while bringing this vital community asset into the modern era.”

Analysis of the physical requirements of expansion determined that removing the additions was the most cost effective way to accommodate the new facilities. It also presented an opportunity to improve the building’s architectural image that had been obscured over the years. The original 1929 structure remained unchanged. The addition follows the form of the historic structure, and is linked by a new glass atrium that creates a new circulation spine and provides a dramatic setting for social interaction.

Inside, spaces were designed to complement the historic interiors. Oak paneling, bronze, and glass—materials used in the original building—were incorporated in the design elements.

The jury said, “This project represents a good design solution to solve issues of historic context and design guidelines . . . example of truly historic contextual design.”

Project Team: Kenyon College with Gund Partnership; also The Albert M. Higley Company; Stefura Associates; LeMessurier Consultants; Syska Hennessy Group, Inc.; Grenald Waldron Associates; Ricca Newmark Design