A Historic Dining Hall, Modernized: Inside the Transformation of UConn’s Connecticut Hall
At the University of Connecticut (UConn) South Campus, KBE Building Corporation served as both design‑builder and constructor for the landmark Connecticut Hall student residence and dining facility. The seven‑story, 280,000‑square‑foot building includes 657 beds, a 500‑seat dining hall, game rooms, seminar spaces and a host of communal amenities.
KBE Building Corporation Builds the University of Connecticut’s Connecticut Hall
Our Challenge: A Campus‑Wide Vision With a Tight Deadline
The university needed high-capacity student housing and dining in one rapid‑paced build. KBE’s team was tasked with delivering suite‑style living, dining services and robust infrastructure—all while aligning with UConn’s sustainability goals and campus planning directives.
Location: Storrs, CT
Client: University of Connecticut
Architect of Record: Newman Architects (New Haven, CT)
Bridging Architect: Sasaki
KBE’s Solution: Integrated Design‑Build and Sustainability Focus
KBE partnered with Newman Architects and Sasaki to deliver a high‑performing residence and dining hall. The suite‑style rooms house four students in semi‑suite configurations with shared baths. Amenities include a game room, living room, bike storage and laundry. The building targets LEED Gold certification and integrates outdoor lawns and courtyards overlooking Mirror Lake.
Outcome: Future‑Ready Campus Life
Connecticut Hall is more than a building—it’s a student life accelerator. By integrating high‑capacity housing with social and dining hubs, KBE helped UConn set a new standard for on‑campus living. The facility’s rapid delivery, suite‑style living and high‑performance systems support UConn’s mission of academic excellence and student‑centered design.
