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DDRC grants design approval for two new University of South Carolina residence halls
Summary
The Design Development Review Commission granted a certificate of design approval for two student residence buildings at the University of South Carolina, subject to staff review of any subsequent design changes.
The Design Development Review Commission granted a certificate of design approval for two new student residence halls proposed by the University of South Carolina on the blocks bounded by Blossom, Sumter and Marion streets.
Staff presented the project as two complementary structures: a six-story addition to the existing Honors Residence Hall (referred to as Sumter Street East and West) and a larger replacement of McBride Residence Hall (referred to as the Sumter Street Residences). Staff described the Sumter Street Residences as wrapping portions of the Thomas Cooper Library and featuring a ground-level breezeway network, curtain-wall glass bars that enclose lounges and study spaces, and a centrally located community pavilion dubbed the “Creativity Hub.” Material palettes described by staff included tan and red brick, precast banding, metal panels, wood-composite awnings and glass curtain walls. Staff concluded the proposal substantially met applicable city design guidelines and recommended approval with conditions that any later design changes be submitted to staff for review.
Justin Abrams, representing the applicant, said the project is intended to enhance the experience of first-year students while respecting city center design guidelines and USC standards. “The 2 story pavilion-like structure that we're calling the Creativity Hub is meant to be an entry and a place of community and learning,” Abrams said. He noted the design team had refined the unit mix and reduced some square footage since the packet was issued and that interior design work would continue.
A commissioner moved to approve the design certificate, including the staff condition that any changes or additional details be submitted to staff for review; a second was recorded. The roll call vote was Miss Gallo — yes; Mister Greenberg — yes; Mister Leedecker — yes; Mister Shelton — yes; Miss Thomas — yes; Mister Salibi — yes. The motion passed unanimously.
The approval allows the project to proceed under the DDRC design certificate process; staff will review subsequent design refinements as they are submitted.
