DLA+

Architecture & Interior Design

Pennsylvania State University East Halls: Pennypacker Hall

DLA+, with Clayco and Mackey Mitchell Architects (MMA), was selected as part of an exciting design-build team to dramatically transform East Halls, a large residence hall campus at The Pennsylvania State University. Phase 1B included renovations to Pennypacker Hall with an estimated construction cost of $18 million.

Project Team

Owner
Pennsylvania State University
Services
Architecture
Interior Design
Construction Administration
Completion Date
August 2018
Project Size
273 renovated beds
67,000 SF
Project Cost
$18 Million
Contractor
Clayco Corp
Awards
LEED Gold
Teaming Partners
Design Architect - Mackey Mitchell Architects
MEP Engineer - Barton Associates
Structural Engineer - Hope Furrer Associates
Landscape Architect - Lamar Johnson Collaborative (Formerly Forum Studio)
Civil Engineer - Sweetland Engineering
LEED Consultant: Energy & Environmental Solutions Inc.

Project Challenges and Outcomes

Challenges

The goal of the renovation was to transform the existing 1960s building into a modern residence life facility for incoming Penn State freshman. Additionally, the exterior design had to blend in with the surrounding East Halls, so all the buildings look uniform.  

Outcomes

The intent of the Phase 1B East Halls renovation was to create a modern residence hall from the existing 1960s, eight-story building for incoming Penn State freshmen. Pennypacker Hall’s 273 beds are broken down into double occupancy rooms, single rooms for Resident Assistants, and a RD apartment on the main floor. Each floor includes single user bathrooms with a shower and toilet to allow for privacy and additional toilet only restrooms. Each floor has lounge areas that can be supplemental housing space should the need arise. The main floor includes a meeting room, large common area with a kitchen, knowledge room, laundry room, and study room. Additionally, the hall is home to one Res Life staff member’s office.

Learn more about the entire East Halls Project.