At Samford University, dining is an opportunity for community as well as sustenance. Tipton Associates led the $10 million transformation of “The Caf” within the Ralph W. Beeson University Center, converting a traditional 20,000-square-foot cafeteria into a vibrant, modern food hall. The renovated facility received the NACUFS 2025 Silver Medal for Dining Facility of the Year.
The renovation breaks down barriers to redefine the student experience. Moving away from the standard swipe-in entry, the new open concept invites students, faculty, and staff to gather freely. The design prioritizes fellowship, part of the private Christian university’s mission, and facilitates fresh, made-to-order fare across the dining stations with individual POS systems. A new dishwashing room with automated systems and overhauled kitchen stations streamline service for high-volume dining. Since the renovation, participation in the Caf has increased by 28%. As one surveyed student noted: “It’s modern, but true to Samford… big enough not to feel like I’m missing out on a ‘caf experience,’ but small enough where I can still make lasting connections.”