University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
Blending old and new to activate a thriving campus neighborhood
Located in Ann Arbor’s historic Hill Neighborhood, Mosher-Jordan Hall has been a 480-student residence hall since 1931, but had not undergone significant renovation since it was built. With Goody Clancy leading the design and preservation of this important building, the University launched a comprehensive revitalization and modernization of all campus residential and dining facilities, for which Mosher-Jordan served as prototype. The project included the design of the new Hill Dining Center, which serves 2,000 students, to replace individual dining halls in four adjacent buildings.
Our renovation brought the historic hall to modern-day standards and enabled it to work compatibly with the new facilities while retaining its historic character. The new dining building was sited to take full advantage of the sloping site and preserve Palmer Field. Its placement transformed an open, windswept space into several sheltered, usable outdoor gathering areas.
- A major addition, the Hill Dining Center’s visually dynamic design creates an open, airy setting with large windows overlooking Palmer Field and much of the central campus.
- The historic residence hall is able to gracefully embrace a large, new dining center because the functional components—kitchen, mechanical and preparation areas—were located beneath the new courtyard, which creates impromptu meeting spaces for students.
- The transparent dining structure contrasts with the heavy masonry walls of the residence hall but is respectful of the rich historic architectural heritage of the surrounding buildings.
- The new dining commons reinforces the “neighborhood” concept with distinct “geographic” areas, inviting community spaces, a community center, and pedestrian access to enhance this meeting destination for all students.
- Goody Clancy also renovated the adjacent historic student residence, Stockwell Hall.
