Campus Architecture Database: Owen Graduate Center

Michigan State University, East Lansing, Mich.

Building Type: Residential

Construction Type: Renovation

Cost: $7-million

Square Footage: 39,000

Architect: SmithGroup

Contractor: Triangle Associates Inc.

Opened: 2009

Completed in the mid-1960s, Owen Graduate Center was built to provide graduate students with on-campus housing. With a large number of single rooms and central location near many professional schools, the residence hall was well positioned to attract students, but lacked modern amenities. After years of declining occupancy at Owen, the university invested in a renovation to create a service-oriented and visually impressive housing option. The dining area now offers the Riverwalk Market, with food venues, a coffee shop, and study areas for informal group meetings. An information hub welcomes residents and provides a central location to pick up mail, check e-mail, and meet friends and guests. A community kitchen gives students the option of preparing their own meals. Group-study rooms completed the makeover.

(Photos: Jim Haefner Photography)

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