A study of Cottey College’s existing buildings and campus identified an underutilized space at the heart of campus as an opportunity for a new student center. By excavating around an existing church and converting its basement, the design established the Susan Bulkeley Butler Center for Campus Life without requiring a separate new building.
The $3.2 million, 11,000 SF renovation creates a range of indoor and outdoor spaces for students to gather, study, and connect. The design emphasizes comfort, visibility, and connections between spaces, providing settings that support both individual and group activities throughout the day.
The project’s fundraising campaign centered on the theme “Connect,” with the design team supporting the effort through project imagery and narrative that communicated the vision for the new center.
