University of Rochester Residence Hall & Lobby Renovation

Beardsley Architects + Engineers provided full architectural and engineering design services for the renovation of Anderson Hall, transforming the building’s ground floor lobby and entrance to integrate seamlessly with the new Jackson Court—an outdoor gathering space that unifies the surrounding residential tower complex.

Working alongside The Pike Company as prime contractor, Beardsley reoriented the main entrance to face Jackson Court, providing barrier-free access to the previously inaccessible nine-story residence hall. The redesigned lobby aligns new student activity and lounge areas along the main passage between the entrance and elevator core, encouraging social interaction and small group study.

Materials, finishes, and furnishings complement nearby O’Brien Hall, also designed by Beardsley, and update the original 1960s-era first floor circulation space. Upgrades included new heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, as well as an automatic fire protection system extended to an adjacent dormitory suite, which also received minor renovations.