Carson Gulley Center, originally known as Van Hise Refectory, was built in 1926 as the dining hall that served Tripp and Adams Dormitories, which were constructed at the same time and in a similar style.

This project undertook to preserve and augment this stately old building, restoring numerous historical elements, such as the circlehead windows and interior arched colonnade previously buried under layers of past renovations. New elements were also introduced, such as additional basement windows and three new circlehead windows looking north to Lake Mendota, which serve to add to this building’s story.

The interior was selectively demolished, retaining salient features which were layered upon with new elements and finishes. Each floor is comprised of a large open space on the west half of the building, with Resident Life offices in the basement, Main Dining space on the first floor, and the Upper Gulley assembly space on the second floor. These spaces are supported on each level, providing mechanical, food preparation/presentation, and catering facilities respectively.

Access and circulation issues were also addressed, with new site features on the west side of the building providing outdoor dining and lounge spaces.

Madison Trust for Historic Preservation Award - 2014