Around 1908, two three-storybuildings were erected on the campus of the University of Central Missouri: the original Humphreys Building and the Morris Building, joined by an addition in 1968. Over time, that mid-century core led to disjointed circulation and understated entrances, and the building became something to walk around rather than through. UCM made an investment in its future, preserving the 110-year-old wings, implementing state-of-the-art technology, modernizing the interior, and reshaping the core to encourage movement, daylight, and collaboration. Hollis + Miller, in conjunction with Cuningham Group, helped bring that vision to life, restoring the historic stone exterior and reestablishing Humphreys as a central hub on campus.
DESIGN APPROACH
Through our co-creation process, we engaged students, faculty, and staff, who identified what they valued most: adaptability, collaboration, and connection. UCM’s priorities guided every design decision. Together, we blended historic preservation with a welcoming, modern interior that encourages student socialization. The renovation more than doubles collaboration space and improves faculty-student interaction, with flexible classrooms, gathering areas and offices.
Bold wayfinding graphics and pops of red, complemented by warm wood tones, emphasize UCM’s colors throughout. Updated, welcoming entrances greet visitors from any approach. On the north side, a new centrally located entrance welcomes students and faculty with four floors of expansive glazing.
The building houses classrooms and offices for Criminal Justice, ROTC, McNair Scholars, the Safety Center, Physical Education, Counseling, Testing Services, Online and Learning Engagement, and Health Promotion, along with a new state-of-the-art Esports facility that brings energy and community to the heart of campus.
Flexible, sustainable design supports cross-disciplinary collaboration and prepares the building for the evolving needs of higher education. State-of-the-art technology integration enhances active learning, while Universal Design principles keep every space accessible and welcoming. The Humphreys Building is designed to LEED Silver certification standards.
