The project: To meet growing demand for on-campus student housing, North Carolina Central University (NCCU) leveraged a public-private partnership to deliver a significant expansion of its Residential Life facilities in Durham, NC. The initiative replaced 417 existing beds and added 823 new ones across three new residence halls – George, Lawson, and Chidley – bringing the total project area to 377,500 square feet.

The goal: The primary objective was to increase housing capacity and provide a wider variety of living options to better support both current and incoming students. The development enhances the student experience by offering modern, community-oriented housing that aligns with academic and social needs.

The design: The five- and six-story buildings are constructed using load-bearing cold-formed metal stud framing with a Nucor EcoSpan joist and slab system, supported by a post-tensioned cast-in-place concrete podium slab and beam system on concrete columns. Housing options range from apartment-style residences with full kitchens and shared living spaces for upperclassmen to semi-suite style units for underclassmen. Retail space is integrated into the ground floor of the upperclassmen building, while the other two halls offer shared community kitchens, study rooms, lounges, and flexible-use meeting and classroom space.

The outcome: This student housing expansion significantly increases NCCU’s on-campus residential capacity while offering diverse and modern accommodations. The project strengthens the university’s ability to attract and retain students and reinforces its commitment to providing a comprehensive, supportive campus living environment.