Harding Hall Renovation

South Dakota State University

Built in 1954 as a men’s dormitory, Harding Hall had become office space for a series of disparate departments.  A need for more classroom space, coupled with the desire to continue to grow the Economics department into a School of Management, led to the renovation of the Hall into a learning center that facilitates collaboration between students, faculty, and staff.

The long, narrow building – with double-loaded corridors and shallow floor-to-floor heights – challenged the creation of larger spaces and distribution of upgraded mechanical systems.  In response, a chilled beam system was used for its reduced size and, with exterior wall insulation, led to a 30% energy savings.  The slim plan welcomes natural light and quality views, and full-height glazed openings were added to break up the exterior façade.  A segment of circulation was shifted to the exterior wall for interest and to create mid-sized collaboration spaces.  A single entry addition accommodates accessibility and creates a clear front door.  Inside, the daylight-infused lobby is enhanced by an exposed original stair and one-of-a-kind public art piece commissioned by the University.