Rev. Sean Hogan Dining Center, at Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, is receiving its first extensive renovation since 2012. The university has engaged Tipton Associates for the exciting work. Our architects Darrin Badon and Liz Dyer traveled to campus this spring to meet students and learn their needs and preferences for the revitalized Hogan.
Reporter Kaitlyn Hughes, of the campus publication The Duquesne Duke, spoke with Darrin about the renovations and our design process:
During the engagement sessions, the firm was able to build an understanding of the campus’ desire for the dining facility appearance, seating arrangement and improvements that could be made. Picture boards were set up last week in Hogan depicting several options for what the renovations could potentially look like, allowing students to vote on their favorite images of the restored dining hall. The feedback will be considered throughout the planning process.
Being able to collaborate with students, helps produce the best result, Badon said. Several people he met with, including the Rev. Father Sean Hogan, advocated for the needs of the student body.
“Some campuses don’t have student input, which is disappointing,” he said.
As we progress in the design work, we’ll incorporate student feedback alongside university and operational needs to deliver a renovation that considers the people who will use the dining hall most and makes a positive, campus-wide impact for years to come. Hogan will be a place where students gather to “break bread” and make lasting connections. “I am a firm believer that architecture can make environments better,” said Darrin.
Read the full article on the plans and aspirations for the renovation here.