Nebraska East Union, University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Since the University’s opening in 1977, the needs of the UNL students have drastically changed and their union needed to meet those needs. This renovation transformed the union from an outdated facility into THE gathering place on campus.

Improving visual connectivity, transparency, daylighting, and wayfinding were all key objectives to the success of this renovation and addition of the Nebraska East Union. The most dramatic new feature is the redesigned central atrium, an organizing element that revitalizes the sense of community in the building.

A new main street circulation path with an added entry connects program spaces and amenities within the building while strengthening its integration into the campus fabric. Special new features include an expanded pre-function lounge and ballroom for flexible event planning, a multi-venue dining marketplace, new retail components, a Starbucks café, as well as a fully renovated bowling center with new locker rooms.

This project was designed in collaboration with RDG Planning & Design.