St. John’s Catholic Newman Center – Old Rectory Master Plan

Champaign, Illinois

Reimagining the Former Rectory: Salvage, Repurpose, and Renew

This project focuses on the transformative revival of a long-vacant rectory building, currently serving as a mere storage space and succumbing to rapid deterioration. Positioned adjacent to a large Newman Center dormitory to its east, this historic structure holds immense potential to become a vibrant hub for student and staff life.

Our Vision: Preserving History, Building for the Future

Our master plan is centered on salvaging this valuable building from further decay and repurposing it to meet the evolving needs of the campus community. This comprehensive renovation will not only prevent further damage but also integrate essential modern amenities and expand usable space, all while preserving and enhancing its inherent character.

Strategic Interventions for Enhanced Functionality and Aesthetics

To bring the building up to current code standards and maximize its utility, several key interventions are planned:

• Vertical Circulation and Accessibility: The addition of new stairs and an elevator will ensure the building is fully accessible and meets all modern safety regulations, allowing seamless movement throughout all levels.
• Expanded Gathering Space: A significant enhancement involves the creation of a new third floor. This strategic addition will provide much-needed space for a large gathering area, accommodating a wide range of student and staff activities.
• Improved Protection and Aesthetic Appeal: The existing roof will be replaced with a pitched roof. This not only offers superior protection against the elements but also contributes a significant aesthetic improvement to the building’s overall appearance, complementing its historic architecture.
• Welcoming Outdoor Spaces: On the south side of the property, a new accessible entrance and a raised patio will be created, offering a warm and inviting approach to the building. Surrounding outdoor landscaped areas will provide versatile spaces designed for student gatherings, accommodating both intimate groups and larger assemblies.

Thoughtful Interior Restoration and Reconfiguration

The interior transformation will respectfully acknowledge the building’s past while creating functional, modern spaces:

• Restoring Architectural Beauty: Our design prioritizes the restoration of some of the beautiful original interior details, ensuring the building’s historical charm is preserved and celebrated.
• Optimized Space Planning: Extensive interior modifications will require a reconfiguration of spaces to best serve the new programming. The primary areas dedicated to student use will include a dynamic social hall, versatile meeting rooms, a fully equipped kitchen, comfortable lounge areas, and an impressive assembly hall on the new third floor. The second floor is strategically planned to accommodate future office space, allowing for flexibility and growth.

This project represents a commitment to sustainable design, historical preservation, and the creation of enriching environments for higher education. We are excited to transform this forgotten rectory into a cornerstone of campus life.

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