The Lakefront on Langdon Cafe is situated in the northeast corner of the University of Wisconsin—Madison's Memorial Union. The State of Wisconsin Division of State Facilities and Wisconsin Union wanted to rejuvenate the dining space into a light-filled, spacious and open space where students could gather and interact.
The new design is inspired by Art Deco and Art Moderne styles found in the building's 1939 theater wing. The dining space opens up to allow views out to Lake Mendota, while reoccurring natural images of clouds, sand, sunbursts, trees, sailboats and waves create a metaphorical link to the Union Terrace.
A new terrazzo floor is inlaid with brass Union imagery, mother-of-pearl and colored glass. Structural columns are wrapped in wood and integrated into the design as symbols of trees and nature. Ceiling heights expand and contract to create a variety of intimate seating arrangements.
The dining space also features wireless Internet access, audiovisual technology and a dance floor.
The architect is Strang, Inc. (Madison, Wis.).
