Little
Ohio Wesleyan University
Student Housing Master Plan
Delaware, Ohio
Project Type
Higher Education
Size
Campus-Wide
Design Services
Planning
Ohio Wesleyan University partnered with Little to develop a comprehensive Student Housing Master Plan focused on assessing, enhancing, and expanding on-campus housing to better align with the institution’s goals and mission.
Executed in three phases, the plan began with detailed assessments of the existing residential inventory, followed by a collaborative charrette process involving students, faculty, administrators, and leadership. This input guided the creation of a strategic framework that fosters community, enhances the residential experience, and supports student success. The final phase of the plan delivered a refined strategy with immediate and long-term implementation timelines. Little continues to support OWU in realizing its vision—master planning and delivering new living communities including housing for honors students and senior-class residents.
Project Goals
Ohio Wesleyan’s goal was to strengthen the residential experience on campus by creating housing environments that better support students, culture, and long-term institutional priorities. Aiming to understand the current condition of existing facilities, listen to the needs of stakeholders, and develop strategies that enhance community, learning, and overall campus life. By establishing a clear and flexible roadmap for improvements, this master plan should make thoughtful, phased investments that will serve students well today and for years to come.
- 01 Evaluate existing student housing facilities and engage key stakeholders to inform an inclusive planning process.
- 02 Develop short- and long-term housing strategies that align with institutional priorities, campus culture, and living-learning goals.
- 03 Foster a cohesive, community-driven residential experience with environments that support honors and small-group housing.
- 04 Establish a flexible implementation timeline that allows for phased upgrades and future expansion based on need and funding.
What began as a vision to redefine campus living has evolved into a comprehensive path forward for generations of OWU students.
The project delivered a comprehensive, phased Student Housing Master Plan that aligns with the University’s mission and growth objectives, supported by detailed facility assessments and clear renovation strategies.
Through an inclusive design charrette, stakeholders helped shape a vision that led to the successful creation of the Small Living Community and the launch of Phase 1 improvements, including renovated facilities and new senior housing. With honors housing now in design to further integrate living-learning opportunities, Ohio Wesleyan is well-positioned to enhance residential life and strengthen its ability to attract and retain students for years to come.
