Constructed in the 1960s, Taylor Hall at the University of Wisconsin — Oshkosh consisted of two four-story residence hall wings connected by a one-story entrance and lobby. All social space for the residents was relegated to the basement of the lobby.
A welcoming and functional new entrance was created, which serves as the hub of the dynamic living space. The 1½-story lobby and elevator core provide new vertical and horizontal connections to the residential wings.
With an eye to promoting casual social interaction in all areas of the residence hall, the lobby design provides natural light and vivid colors on the walls, floors and furnishings. The lobby has become an elegant and welcoming space for students and visitors.
The lower level of the lobby was renovated to provide practical and improved social space. It now has two laundry rooms, TV rooms, study rooms, music practice space, a kitchen and recreation areas with a pool and ping-pong tables. A computer lab is situated in the lower level of the residence hall lobby.
New lounges were designed for the residence hall floors. Formerly concrete block hallways were plastered. Color and patterns make the space vivid, comfortable and less institutional.
Hall director apartments were added to each floor withouth losing bed count, which remains at 500. Each floor received a shower addition, which provided the opportunity to change the bathrooms, giving students much desired privacy.
The architect is Uihlein Wilson Architects (Milwaukee).
