Martin Residence Hall Renovations

Hendrix College

Conway, Arkansas

Size 22,400 sq/ft

Completion Date 2023

Awards
Learning By Design 2023 Merit Award 

Martin Hall is a very important historic building on the Hendrix Campus. Built in 1918, it is the second oldest surviving building on campus. Designed by the architectural firm of Thompson and Harding, the Collegiate Gothic style building is a main focal point within the campus environment providing the core of the campus aesthetic that has continued to influence new construction to the present time.

 After completing a feasibility study and condition assessment in 2019, the WER team recommended not only upgrading finishes, electrical and plumbing systems but found significant environmental concerns related to humidity and temperature control. Due to the concern for student safety, the building was taken off line in 2020 and underwent an entire renovation.  

Since Martin Hall is individually listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it was eligible to utilize State Historic Tax Credits for the rehabilitation work. One of the key components to qualifying for these credits is to ensure that the proposed scope of work meets the requirements of the secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation. A key identifying element of the building is the front porch that has a series of arched openings. These openings were closed in with windows to create a heated and cooled vestibule. Through the years this space had become underutilized and used for storage. During the renovations, the windows were removed, creating an open porch and the design team restored the front of the building to match the original 1918 design.

 The most significant work to resolve the environmental problems involved replacing the HVAC systems with new code compliant air distribution and humidity control along with the introduction of fresh air into the building to provide a much safer and cleaner environment for the students. With the increase in mobile devices being used by students, the existing WiFi system was expanded. The overall student experience has greatly improved throughout the building by newly designed restrooms, and upgrading furniture, finishes and lighting in the main lobby, corridors and student rooms. Study rooms were added throughout the three story building to accommodate more small group and individual study.