Spillman Farmer Architects has been the master planner and primary architect on Muhlenberg College’s campus for decades. SFA provided an initial feasibility study and assessment which determined East Hall’s significant value to the historic campus core. This project repurposes East Hall to meet new student requirements, while maintaining its historic charm. Our intent was to provide a memorable, meaningful, living/learning environment for students while connecting them to outdoor space. East Hall’s renovation will include warm, inviting interiors with thoughtful historic detailing that respects the charm of the original building. Large and small social spaces will foster a sense of community, and be located strategically to minimize circulation zones and provide visual and physical connectivity to the greater campus.

For this project we are deploying off-site and pre-fabricated construction strategies. This system of construction minimizes site disruption and shortens construction time. Fabricating the addition in this way also allows for a timely juxtaposition of construction methods. Ultimately, the building respects its early 20th century fabric while exploiting a 21st-century construction model.

Though the building is over a century old, SFA’s renovations and additions will modernize East Hall into a desirable residence hall for Muhlenberg students. Through multiple programming sessions and design alternatives, SFA’s interventions are transforming the hall with a delicate hand.