uring a design-build competition won by NAC|Architecture for the design of the Northside Residence Hall at WSU, we were provided with a master plan for the associated residential District and a suggested location for the first phase of construction. Instead of accepting the master plan at face value, we took what we had learned from being on campus and meeting with stakeholders and revised the plan to better reflect the goals of the stakeholders and the broader campus needs. Our winning approach re-oriented the buildings toward a common outdoor space. By removing the acreage dedicated to side-yards and keeping the buildings fairly close to one another, the plan is able to provide a neighborhood amenity.Phase 1 of the Northside Residence Hall will enhance WSU’s Residence Life program and is intended to increase student retention. The design concept meets not only the budget goals but also the quality benchmarks that include a long service life and enhanced energy performance. Each floor is home to 75 residents, but is then sub-divided into a West community of 37 and an East community of 38. Variety of room size, type and layout are available on each of the upper floors of the building, providing desired accommodation for all student age groups.