Our team recently completed the design for the $50.3 million renovation and addition of Winther and Heide Halls on the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater campus. Currently under construction and scheduled for completion in 2028, the project will transform two key academic facilities into modern, accessible, and adaptable learning environments that better support the University’s educational mission.

Winther Hall, a 79,777 SF building and home to the College of Education and Professional Studies, is undergoing a comprehensive renovation with 9,000 SF of additions that address aging infrastructure, accessibility challenges, and evolving teaching and learning needs. The project includes a complete reconfiguration of much of the building’s interior, replacement of mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire protection systems, and upgrades to the building envelope through new windows, doors, insulation, and roofing. Universal design principles are incorporated throughout to improve accessibility, functionality, and the overall user experience.

The renovated facility will feature flexible, technology-rich classrooms designed to support active learning, collaboration, and hybrid instruction. A variety of informal gathering spaces, study areas, and collaboration zones throughout the building will encourage interaction among students, faculty, and staff. A centrally located student hub near the primary entrances will improve wayfinding and provide convenient access to advising and field experience services.

Additional improvements include new elevators, accessible all-gender restroom cores, life safety upgrades, and the conversion of existing lecture halls into more flexible, student-focused spaces. These enhancements create a more inclusive and welcoming environment while extending the useful life of the facility through sustainable adaptive reuse.

The Heide Hall portion of the project includes a four-story 7,900 SF addition housing new elevators and accessible restroom facilities, along with replacement of windows, storefront glazing, skylights, and roofing systems. Together, the renovations and additions to Winther and Heide Halls will provide modern, durable, and future-ready spaces that support student success for decades to come.