Golden Oaks Residence Hall

Western Michigan University's new residence hall emerges from its hillside site with intention, establishing a strong connection between architecture and the surrounding landscape. Designed to achieve the university’s goals for both speed and affordability, the residence hall employs efficient prefabrication methods and sustainably sourced materials to meet ambitious objectives.

The building’s strategic massing and orientation define two distinct courtyards: a vibrant, sunlit social hub near the main entrance and a quieter, shaded courtyard to the north. Large mass timber-framed windows reinforce connections to the landscape, framing expansive views of the wooded terrain and surrounding campus.

Designed to accommodate over 1,000 first-year students, the residence hall features pod-style living arrangements that offer a sense of community and belonging. Strategically placed glulam columns and beams accent communal areas, while exposed mass timber ceilings extend into student bedrooms, offering warmth, textural richness, and biophilic connections throughout the interiors.

Flexible, inclusive design strategies, including universally accessible spaces, single-occupant restrooms, and dedicated wellness rooms, support diverse and evolving student needs. Through a synthesis of sustainable materials, efficient construction methods, and adaptable planning, the residence hall establishes a replicable model for resilient, environmentally responsible student housing.