Brady and Dowling Residence Halls Renovations

University of St. Thomas

Located in the heart of North campus and connected by Koch Commons, Dowling and Brady are two residence halls housing nearly 700 first-year students at the University of St. Thomas. BWBR partnered with McGough Construction to renovate the facilities in a phased construction process, with Dowling Hall completed first and Brady and Koch upgraded a year later. Goals of increasing health and wellbeing, enhancing community, promoting learning, and serving university recruitment guided the project, all while drawing inspiration from the nearby Mississippi River to reflect the campus’ natural scenery.

A new main entry at Dowling builds stronger visual and functional connections between the hall and the surrounding campus, welcoming students into the refreshed facility. New community areas in both halls, including study rooms and lounges, are located along major circulation spines to foster connections and infuse energy into the spaces as students move through the buildings. Renovated restrooms are designed with privacy at the forefront, and a single-user restroom was added to each floor to increase accessibility and comfort. Both Dowling and Brady residence halls retain their own unique identity and character through distinct interior palettes while embracing modern finishes, student-centered amenities, and the St. Thomas brand.

Project partners: McGough Construction, Damon Farber, Kimley-Horn, Palanisami & Associates