VALK ACADEMIC RENOVATION, NWMSU

A lower level finds a higher purpose

By converting a full basement formerly used for maintenance and storage, NWMSU discovered a place for lecture rooms, offices and a much needed satellite student union space on the west edge of campus.  Key design elements in this successful conversion were two new entrance/stairwells.  These entrances opened the lower level to abundant natural light and view corridors, mitigating the sense of ‘basement’ and creating dynamic interior spaces.  Materials taken from the existing building were turned vertically at the new entrances to unify the striclly stratified exteriors.