As a dynamically growing campus, The University of Alabama recognized the need to increase its multidiscipline classroom space closer to new student housing.

TURNERBATSON was hired as the architect to design North Lawn Hall — an 80,000 GSF, two-story facility consists of 13 total classrooms with a total seating capacity of 2,000. A mix of student seating capacities accommodate multiple learning objectives. Four classrooms seat 100, six seat 120, and two seat 240. Additionally, a large auditorium with stadium seating accommodates 400 students. Flexible collaborative spaces were also distributed within the facility to allow for student/faculty meetings.

A team of faculty, students, and technical staff were the focus group for design decisions in the classrooms. Their feedback was utilized in the seating, type and configuration, video technologies, and the design of social spaces.

The angled wings of the building anchor the intersection of Tuscaloosa’s Hackberry Lane and Peter Bryce Blvd that will extend onto the recently acquired Bryce property. The floor plan allows for light-filled social spaces that occur along the front artery. The neoclassical detailing and Tuscan order reflect and enhance the architectural style of the campus. This building integrates safe space design in accordance with ICC 500 standards, which ensures the safety of building occupants during severe weather events.