Arizona State University Wilson Hall
A New Era for Wilson Hall: A Sustainable, Inclusive Hub for Learning
At the heart of Arizona State University’s main campus, the new Wilson Hall is more than just an academic building. It is a dynamic hub designed for flexibility, accessibility, and sustainability. Replacing its 1956 predecessor, the five-story, 178,000-SF facility seamlessly integrates into the campus fabric, drawing inspiration from ASU’s Mid-Century Modern heritage while embracing contemporary innovation. Its porous design blurs the boundaries between indoors and outdoors, creating a vibrant hub within the larger campus connective tissue. With 19 state-of-the-art classrooms, dedicated faculty spaces, and a new home for ASU’s Student Accessibility and Inclusive Learning Services, Wilson Hall is built to serve a diverse and evolving university community.
Delivered in a Design-Build partnership between RSP Architects and Holder Construction, Wilson Hall was shaped by a clear set of priorities: future flexibility, inclusivity, and student well-being. Expansive glazing and strategic massing allow natural light to penetrate deep into the building, enhancing both energy efficiency and occupant experience. A central multi-story “canyon” filled with collaboration spaces fosters interaction between students and faculty, while a second-floor terrace provides an outdoor extension of the bustling campus core. Contextual material choices, including custom aluminum brise-soleil and Roman brick, ensure durability and a timeless aesthetic that resonates with ASU’s architectural legacy.
Sustainability is at the forefront of Wilson Hall’s design, with the project exceeding its initial LEEDv4 Silver target to be on track to achieve Gold certification. The building incorporates active chilled beam cooling, daylight-responsive lighting controls, and high-performance glazing that reduces heat gain without compromising views. Energy modeling and advanced shading strategies optimize the structure’s performance in the Arizona climate, while the integration with ASU’s central plant system maximizes efficiency. More than just a place of learning, Wilson Hall represents ASU’s commitment to responsible and forward-thinking design. It is built to meet the needs of today’s students and faculty while adapting for generations to come.
