At Tipton Associates, we believe that architecture has the power to make environments better, not just by creating functional spaces, but by fostering community and honoring the stories of the buildings we inhabit too. Our recent work at Mississippi State University’s historic Perry Hall is a testament to that mission, and we are thrilled to see the project featured as the cover story for the latest issue of Foodservice Equipment Reports (FER) Magazine. The article, titled “Gothic Glow,” offers an in-depth look at how our team of architects and interior designers—including Erin Morgan, Taylor Saxena Eaglin, Sydney Watts, and Dan Zito—reimagined a 100+-year-old landmark for the modern student experience, working in partnership with the university and its dining provider, Aramark.
Originally built in 1921, Perry Hall is a cornerstone of the MSU campus. Our challenge was to transition the facility from a traditional “all-you-care-to-eat” cafeteria into a vibrant, retail-style food hall while respecting its Gothic Revival roots. The venues incorporate the key equipment needed to prepare Perry Food Hall’s array of cuisine, including smokehouse fare, bakery delights, and study-fueling Starbucks.
The renovation preserves the iconic timber beams and historic charm of the main hall while introducing a modern, light-filled “glass box” seating addition. This new space serves as a literal and figurative window into the life of the campus, creating a social hub where students can gather to eat, study, and build lasting connections.
Click here to read “Gothic Glow: Inside Mississippi State’s Dining Renovation”
Are you planning a transformation on your campus? Contact our dining studio to learn how we can work together to turn your aspirations into reality.