Date Posted: 10.30.2025
Mithun and Goettsch Partners have been selected by University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign to design the newest development in Ikenberry Commons. This replacement residence hall will expand housing capacity with 600-800 beds for first-year students and enrich campus life with an integrated 300-seat dining hall.
”We are thrilled to team with Goettsch Partners as we embark on the new expansion of residence life facilities at the University of Illinois. Together, our shared passion for design excellence and for creating spaces where students live, learn and thrive will build the foundation for a meaningful partnership and a transformative new chapter in campus life,” says Mithun partner and project manager Lynn McBride.
University of Illinois reported a record-breaking freshman class this fall, with more than 9,200 first-year students (a 23% increase compared with five years ago). University Housing identified this project as a priority, in alignment with the Ikenberry Commons Strategic Plan – 2022 (ICSP). As the first development in a multi-phase master plan, it will define a new model for future residential development in this precinct of campus.
“Anchoring the terminus of a primary pedestrian and bicycle route, this corner of Ikenberry Commons is poised to become a lively crossroads and integral part of students’ daily experience on campus,” shared Mithun partner Dorothy Faris. “We’re excited to help reimagine this key site at the heart of campus residential life.”
The total project cost is estimated at $180 million, including construction of Ikenberry Residence Hall #4 and demolition of the existing Taft and Van Doren residence halls. Completion is anticipated by January 2030.
Mithun will serve as the Lead Design Architect with integrated master planning, programming and interior design services. Goettsch Partners is leading the overall team and will serve as the Collaborating Design Architect and Architect of Record. The team is exceeding 45% minority-, women- and veteran-owned business enterprise participation.
