University of Minnesota, Rochester - 318 Commons

Model of Residential Student Development

318 Commons represents a new model of student residential development for the University of Minnesota, Rochester. Developed by G.H. Holdings and designed by HGA, 318 Commons is a mixed-use retail, office, classroom and residential development that supports growing business opportunities in downtown Rochester, Minnesota.

The nine-story building includes tenant space on the 1st floor, Student Life Center on the 2nd floor, three classrooms on the lower level, student apartments on the 3rd through 8th floors, and market-rate apartments on the 9th floors.

The development reinforces a sense of community and student engagement. The Student Life Center is the heart of the building and includes reception/ waiting space, office for the housing coordinator, and a metal-framed staircase leading to the second-level Student Life Center. A student lounge, big-screen TV, Ping-Pong table and other amenities allow students to relax, meet in small groups, or study. Additionally, 20 open faculty work stations encourage student-faculty interaction. Concrete columns and floors, exposed duct work, and large windows reflect the building’s industrial aesthetic. The color palette re-interprets the University’s maroon-and-gold template with greater vibrancy to define activity zones.

Portfolio
Location

Rochester, MN

Building Type

Mixed Use, Resident Hall, Offices, Classrooms, Apartments

Size

60,000 SF

  • 2019 Olmsted County and Rochester Public Utilities Environmental Award

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