DLR Group and college dedicate newly remodeled studio at ribbon cutting

DLR Group and the College of Architecture celebrated the opening of the newly remodeled Architecture Hall studios during a ribbon cutting ceremony held this past weekend.

DLR Group, a locally based global, integrated design firm, is sponsoring the second floor studios in Architecture Hall East, which were part of a remodel project that spanned three floors, formerly the old college library.

“For more than five decades, graduates of the University of Nebraska College of Architecture have fueled the growth of DLR Group in Nebraska and around the globe,” said Griff Davenport, managing principal and CEO at DLR Group. “The construction of the DLR Group Studio has created a space to support learning and design thinking for future generations of professionals who will also be charged with ‘Elevating the Human Experience through Design.’”

“With record enrollment pushing capacity beyond its limits, these new studios couldn’t come at a better time,” said College of Architecture Interim Dean Sharon Kuska.

These studios are part of phase one in a two phased remodel and expansion project. Phase one involved the addition of 11 new design studios, a wellness room, spray booth and work areas, critique spaces and new Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliant restrooms in the Architecture Hall East building and a new 2,490 sq. ft. library with student common and collaboration areas in the Architecture Hall West building.

Phase two, which begins this fall, involves an expansion project that adds 14 new studios and a renovation of eight studios in the Architecture Hall West building among other changes.

“DLR Group has been a long-time supporter of the college,” said Kuska. “This is just one of the countless ways DLR Group has supported our students and the trajectory of the professions. Managing Principal Griff Davenport has served many years on our Professional Advisory Council providing his industry prospective. In addition, numerous collaborate studios over the years have been co-taught by DLR Group instructors, while still other DLR professionals have given back to the college by participating in critiques sharing with our students invaluable professional insight, connections and real-world experiences.”

Anyone interested in sponsoring one of these newly remodeled studios or other opportunities to support the college should contact Cameron Andreesen, College of Architecture director of development with the University of Nebraska Foundation at 402-458-119 or cameron.andreesen@nufoundation.org.