The common areas of Blair Hall, Dole Hall and Shipherd Hall will be anything but common after a complete refresh that will take place this summer. New furniture, paint, flooring, lighting and more will turn the ordinary into extraordinary. The face-lift will begin in June and be completed by the time students arrive back on campus in August.
“It’s not the 1950s anymore,” said Frank Schumacher, director of facilities. Colors, fabrics, style and type of furnishings have been well-thought out, with input from students, to ensure the needs of residents are met. Contemporary club chairs, sofas, tables and more are designed for both comfort and durability.
The project is part of ongoing enhancements made in the residence halls and throughout the campus. Recent projects include renovated bathrooms in all residence halls, improved campus lighting and new sidewalks.
For the men on campus, Blair Hall Thomas Commons updates will be transformed into relaxing seating areas with a color scheme of steel gray, quarry, granite and fire, with a mix of faux leather and fabric.
The women of Dole Hall will welcome a cozy, yet modern study area. Fabrics in colors such as cinnabar, confetti, and steel gray will complement the new carpet and wall color. The floor plan is a mix of private study tables and small group seating.
The Shipherd Hall common area will be transformed into a game room, TV lounge and vending area. Colors and fabrics that appeal to both men and women will cover a variety of chairs and sofas. In addition, the common area will benefit from improved lighting and the exterior doors will be replaced with energy efficient double doors.
“This refresh is another example of how The University of Olivet continually invests in our students,” said Jackie Looser, vice president of finance and administration. “Nearly 550 students call Blair Hall, Dole Hall and Shipherd Hall home, so it’s important to us that their living space truly feel like home to them and reflects the lifestyle of today’s students. It will be exciting to see their reaction to the makeovers when students return in August.”
Check out Blair Hall, Dole Hall, Shipherd Hall and OC’s other housing options. You’re sure to feel right at home at The University of Olivet.