Originally built in 1958, Allison Hall is undergoing a transformative renovation and vertical expansion to meet the needs of future generations. Once complete, the reimagined residence hall will include 618 beds in a mix of traditional single and double rooms across 140,732 GSF. Two new floors will be added to each residential wing, and every wing will be served by new vertical “knuckles” featuring elevators, lounges, and kitchenettes. Thoughtfully designed common spaces include a central laundry, all gendered, single-user bathrooms, and renewed amenities like a Main Lounge, Community Kitchen, Meditation Room, Grab-n-Go Market, and Coffee Shop. The Commons building, located at the heart of the project, enhances student life with open dining and retail options. Partners on the project include Clark & Enersen (AOR) and Adolfson & Peterson Construction (Design-Builder).
Shape
Reimagining Allison Hall involved balancing the preservation of an iconic campus structure with the needs of a modern student community. Structural studies and geotechnical reports confirmed the building’s ability to support two additional stories per wing, made feasible by innovative weight-reduction strategies such as replacing brick demising walls with metal studs and drywall. The team prioritized accessibility, introducing elevators and d fully accessible units, exceeding code minimums. Throughout the process, design strategies focused on supporting community and connection, from quiet retreat zones to vibrant shared amenities. Student engagement and stakeholder collaboration guided design decisions, ensuring that every space supports both individual well-being and collective student life.
Inspire
While construction is ongoing, the vision for Allison Hall is clear: to offer a residence that is welcoming, efficient, and inclusive. Every student room will have access to individually controlled HVAC systems, and each wing will feature all gender, single-user restrooms to enhance comfort and privacy. The building’s improved energy performance and reuse of existing structure aim for LEED Gold certification, aligning with CSU’s sustainability goals. With its updated Commons, new social spaces, and increased capacity, Allison Hall is poised to become a vibrant living-learning hub on campus. As one student shared during early interviews: “I’ll be sad to see it go, but glad to see it when it’s back with new life and amenities.” The project’s ultimate goal: create a place where students thrive, connect, and feel at home.
Allison is a perfect example of how we can reduce our environmental footprint while improving the student experience, we’re reusing what works and modernizing everything else.
- Carolyn Bell Director of Colorado State University Housing & Dining Facilities
