DALEY FAMILY PAVILION
Columbus, Ohio
CHALLENGE
The Ohio State University sought to transform an underutilized corridor on its north campus into a vibrant destination that would foster meaningful connections between students, faculty, and alumni while creating a flexible venue that celebrates university traditions and strengthens the campus community.
SOLUTION
WSA designed the Daley Family Pavilion as a transformative link between previously disconnected areas of campus, creating a welcoming gathering space that serves as both a daily amenity and special event venue. The 3,200-square-foot glass pavilion extends from the Blackwell Inn with a contemporary yet complementary aesthetic, featuring innovative roof lanterns that flood the interior with natural light while minimizing energy consumption.
The pavilion's flexible design supports a spectrum of experiences through thoughtful spatial organization and adaptable furnishings. Pivot doors open to connect the interior with a 10,000-square-foot terrace, allowing events to flow seamlessly between indoor and outdoor environments. This blurring of boundaries enhances the user experience while maximizing the functionality of both spaces.
Materials were selected to create visual warmth against the concrete campus context, with sustainable sourcing prioritized despite pandemic supply chain challenges. Environmental graphics and strategic branding elements create a memorable sense of place that honors university traditions while looking toward the future. Throughout the project, we leveraged an integrated project delivery method with the construction manager, demonstrating how collaborative design processes can overcome logistical obstacles while elevating design quality.
IMPACT
The Daley Family Pavilion has transformed an overlooked campus corridor into a vibrant community hub that strengthens connections across the university. Beyond hosting signature events like pre-game tailgates and alumni functions, the space has become a daily touchpoint for students and faculty, fostering the spontaneous interactions that build community and spark innovation. The pavilion exemplifies how thoughtful design can elevate human potential by creating environments that support both celebration and everyday connection.
