Title: Emory University — Convocation Hall
Location of Proejct: Atlanta, Georgia
Project Completion Date: 12/4/2018
Firm Name: Collins Cooper Carusi Architects, Inc.

Short Description: Emory University’s campus in Atlanta, Georgia is one of historical and architectural significance. As you travel to its heart, one cannot help but notice the soaring entryways, two-story steel windows and uniquely patterned marble of the more notable architectural moments adjacent to the green — Emory’s renovated Convocation Hall.

The building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is a beacon of beauty, history and innovation for the University. The renovation and restoration reflects the original beauty of what the original design intended – a building that respects the past and delivers modern capabilities for the future.

Architect's Statement: Emory University’s campus in Atlanta, Georgia is one of historical and architectural significance. With strong ties to Italianate design and a campus mosaic composed of gray and pink Georgia marble, visitors instantly recognize the campus’ notable features.

As you travel to its heart, you arrive at the Quad where significant life events like commencement are frequently held. And still, one cannot help but notice the soaring entryways, two-story steel windows and uniquely patterned marble of the more notable architectural moments adjacent to the green — Emory’s newly renovated Convocation Hall.

Rooted in the institution’s religious foundation, Convocation Hall originally housed its Theology studies and chapel. First designed and built in 1916 by Henry Hornbostel, the original Theology Building underwent multiple renovations to adapt to its evolving educational agenda and the growth of the University. As Emory named a new President in 2016, there was a need for an environment to properly support its leadership and reflect the institution. In 2019, the building was reimagined yet again to respect the historical significance of its past and create a bridge to the future.

The vision for Convocation Hall is embodied in what Emory represents. Even with top-level leadership occupying the building, the President wanted it to be accessible for students and other visitors, reflecting the institution’s value of inclusivity. In addition, Emory’s history would be prominently represented by preserving many of the original finishes and details that were aspects of its humble beginnings while integrating innovative design solutions that would carry into the future.

The overall design adopted cues from the original 1916 Henry Hornbostel design. When renovated in the 1970’s, many unique architectural features and the appealing views to the Quad were concealed by drywall and steel mezzanines. The design team liberated the hidden features and restored the existing marble and original wooden floors to reveal the building’s original design.

As you migrate from the distinctive historical exterior into the lobby, a restored, monumental marble staircase greets each visitor. To the left are screen panels that resemble the size and shape of the surrounding Georgia marble panels, where people can learn about University events, as well as the building’s history. As one travels to the west wing, the original Reading Room is redesigned to host Board of Trustees meetings and other critical institutional touchpoints. The original configuration was preserved, with many of the arching windows and beams giving the space its open, yet private shape for the confidential meetings that are anticipated. To add the option of increased privacy, special glazing was installed that becomes fully translucent on command, and innovative technology was installed to support the space’s many functions.

On the east side of the building is the Chancellor’s office and main conference room, where much of the hidden historical detailing was revealed and restored. The ceiling was reopened to its original prominence, and a hidden fireplace was reintroduced back into what is now the Chancellor’s office lobby. The space is complemented with large wooden arches and marble and wood paneling that is evocative of the campus’ architectural language.

As one ascends to the second floor, the President’s office is prefaced with an exhibition space featuring historical items. The classrooms installed from the previous renovation were converted into administrative spaces, employing liberal use of transparent walls that maximize daylight and views of the Quad.

However, the most alluring aspect of the second floor is the enticing glimpse down into the Chapel, which spans both the first and second floors. Book stacks inserted in the 1970’s renovation were gutted to re-introduce the spatial integrity and original grandeur from 1916, and is now designed for high-profile hospitality and large University events with appropriate lighting and AV/IT.

What could not be restored throughout the building was replaced with historically appropriate details and modern updates to create a resilient, beautiful building. Indeed, the original building was designed sustainably, using marble spoils for the cladding in lieu of virgin sourced marble, and its sustainable legacy continues with a LEED Silver certification, including a new mechanical system that provides a high energy savings standard for the University. Instead of incorporating new finishes throughout the interior, many of the existing materials were reused and brought back to life, some to their original states, and some completely reimagined. Other details such as standing desks and the location of the monumental stair encourage wellness throughout the building.

Emory’s Convocation Hall is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places and will continue to be a beacon of beauty, history and innovation for the University. The renovation and restoration reflects the original beauty of what Hornbostel intended – a building that respects the past, while delivering modern capabilities for the future.