Kutztown University Old Main A-Wing Elevator Addition

Built in 1864-65, Old Main is the oldest and most historic building on campus. In our early years at the close of the nineteenth century, Old Main was the sole University building, providing classroom, administrative, and living space.

Today, Old Main is a modern and vibrant educational haven, housing the university's Computer Science and Information Technology, Criminal Justice, Counseling and Student Affairs, Modern Languages, Music, Philosophy, Political Science, Psychology, Social Work and Sport Management, and Leadership Studies departments. You will also find the offices of Grants and Sponsored Projects, Housing, Dining and Residential Services, Public Safety, Social Equity, and Student Support Services, as well as the Women's Center and the LGBTQ.

Muhlenberg Greene Architects was commissioned to design an elevator addition to the historically significant Old Main building for Kutztown University. The elevator was planned to provide accessible entry to the ‘A’ wing of the building, which was being converted from dormitory rooms to faculty offices. The new addition permits access to the offices and maintains the secure separation of the wing from the dormitory rooms remaining in the center portion of the building. The exterior design was detailed to complement the historic character and quality of Old Main. Interior finishes for the lobby at the main floor landing were designed to match the existing wood trims and moldings of the original building. Access from the elevator lobbies to the existing building was developed through the existing window opening of the original building. The addition includes a slate roof, exterior cornice moldings and trims, and brick detailing to integrate with the original structure.