On Wednesday, April 22, at 1 p.m., Brevard College began a new chapter in its history with a formal groundbreaking ceremony for its 84-bed residence hall.
“With our recent record enrollment numbers, it’s the perfect time for a project like this,” said Brevard College President David Joyce. “The new residence hall signifies that we are on track with our goals.”The $6.38 million project is funded by a loan from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and a bridge loan from Bank of North Carolina. Construction is slated to finish in June 2016, with students moving in by fall of 2016.
The new residence hall is the first phase of a larger project, which includes a second new residence hall and the addition of green space to create a more pedestrian- and cycling friendly campus. In October 2014, the administration unveiled the design to students and used their feedback to improve the plan.
“At Brevard, we truly appreciate collaborative efforts,” said Joyce. “We received feedback on this project from the entire campus community.”
The residence hall will take advantage of Kings’ Creek and sweeping mountain views by featuring ample grass, a terrace and student gathering spaces. A combination of suite-style and single rooms encourage communal living with amenities and common living areas. Future improvements include a pavilion in the middle of the residential quad.
“The new residence hall is designed with community-building as the goal,” said Brevard College Dean for Students Debora D’Anna. “We hope that by providing a balance between living space and gathering space, it will enhance the overall student experience.”
Plans are in the works to include energy-efficient features, as many recycled materials as possible and an appearance that is consistent with the rest of campus, Joyce said.
McMillan Padzen and Smith is the project architect and Brantley Construction Company is the contractor.