Elm Debate Hall

This facility for an undergraduate debate organization reimagines a cramped historic home into an airy new space for conversation and events. A double-height opening at the building’s center connects the main “Debate Floor” on the first level, and a ringing “Debate Balcony” on the second floor. This central space opens into a kitchen reception area, back meeting room, and other small nooks for more intimate conversation and observation. The interior reconfiguration also included moving the main staircase to the front of the building (where it could serve as egress, and a main feature upon entering), bringing the 200-year-old building up to current accessibility standards, and improving the building envelope both thermally and structurally. Throughout, architectural detailing combines modern and traditional styles, with a palette of stained wood, painted steel, and key original building features.