Ball State University identified the opportunity to renovate the Schmidt/Wilson Residence Hall with a focus on a living-learning community for theater and art students. Looking to modernize and accommodate the needs of the students, the inclusion of the newest technologies and amenities were incorporated into the design of the residence hall. Originally a 1960s-era dormitory, the Schmidt Associates team re-imagined the building in its entirety, using our experience to create a facility that fully integrates the innovative ideology of Ball State. The HVAC system is powered by Ball State’s campus-wide geothermal system. A passive valance heating and cooling system has been a staple of the firm’s previous residence halls due to comfort level, cost and energy efficiencies, and low-maintenance requirements.