Duplicate of Richardson Memorial Hall: School of Architecture and the Built Environment at Tulane University

Strategy

Located at the rear of the building, the new addition faces the Loyola campus while preserving RMH’s historic role as an anchor on Tulane’s quad. The massing strategy uses twin volumes to flank the original wings and bridge the central bay—maximizing usable area without overwhelming the historic form.

To minimize structural intrusion, steel from the new addition is pocketed into the existing masonry—enabling strong integration while maintaining built integrity. The addition’s north side includes an interstitial floor that adds faculty offices between the fourth and fifth floors. This move increased usable square footage within the zoning envelope and presents a transparent interface between faculty and studio spaces.

Inside, new circulation defines a ceremonial entry sequence, restores the historic stair as a social anchor, and consolidates fabrication zones to support student learning. Faculty and student input shaped the design of studios, galleries, lecture halls, and outdoor areas—ensuring each space meets current needs while supporting pedagogical evolution.

Materially, the addition expresses deference through contrast: matte black steel is set back from the historic brick and limestone façade, echoing its rhythm while asserting its own identity. The same material frames passable thresholds between “old” and “new” interior spaces. Baseboards sit flush to the new walls, and were applied to the formerly-exterior masonry to form a barrier between the new polished concrete floors. Ceiling recessions improve ventilation, and the addition of two elevators and four new stairs ensure safety and accessibility.