Robert A.M. Stern Architects' Newell Hall at the University of Florida has been honored with an award from the Florida Trust for Historic Preservation.
Located near the center of the Gainesville campus, Newell Hall, the third-oldest building at the University of Florida, was originally built to serve agricultural science programs but had been vacant since 2012. In response to a request from the University of Florida's student government to provide collaborative, flexible study spaces with food service, tech, and areas for social gatherings, we transformed Newell Hall into a vibrant collection of light-filled learning commons and team rooms arranged around an open stair. Elements from a 1944 renovation, including shed dormers and enlarged windows, were preserved to present a record of the evolution of the building's architectural character. The original structure is linked by a glassy connector to a new office and service annex, which offers a one-story café opening to a pergola-shaded terrace and a courtyard supporting dining, recreation, and outdoor collaborative learning. The reimagined building opened in April 2017. RAMSA Partners Robert A.M. Stern, Graham S. Wyatt, and Melissa DelVecchio led the design. For more information on Newell Hall, please click here.
The Florida Trust Awards recognize outstanding organizations, programs, and preservation achievements that have made a significant impact in preserving Florida’s history and heritage. The Florida Trust for Historic Preservation is the statewide nonprofit dedicated to protecting Florida’s extraordinary heritage and history. Founded in 1978, the Florida Trust has collaborated to save irreplaceable Florida treasures like the Historic Florida Capitol and is a statewide partner of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. For more information, please click here.
