Originally built in 1951 as a Men’s Dormitory for the University of Michigan, South Quad features a predominantly concrete structure with some steel framing. Its central lower levels encompass the existing kitchen, support facilities, and the first-floor Dining area. The east and west wings serve as residential spaces, as does the central section of the building above the first floor.

Central to the 110,000 sq. ft. South Quad’s refurbishment was the enhancement of the Ground and First Floors’ dining areas. These renovations aimed to establish a new dining hub for the central campus, serving residents of South Quad, West Quad, Barbour, and Newberry. The redesigned layout, entry design, and internal circulation route to the dining facility played a crucial role in its success.

Another key objective involved revamping existing residence community toilet rooms, including full demolition for the installation of new fixtures. ADA-compliant, new community toilet/shower rooms were designed to meet student needs. Additionally, the project encompassed the construction of a new cast-in-place, below-grade loading dock adjacent to a residential area. As part of this initiative, a new chiller plant was introduced to cater to the renovated spaces of South Quad, West Quad, and the air-conditioned areas of the Union.