The University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma desired apartment living, on
campus, for students who preferred living closer in proximity to the university.
An economical solution was to locate the new apartments around the historic
Lawson Hall and convert it into a new community facility renamed Lawson Court.
The main concern was the existing condition of the historic 1930’s compound
that had been abandoned for over forty years. Cavin Design Group developed a
plan for the student clubhouse that would rejuvenate the exterior structure
and offer students amenities that encouraged social activity.To reduce budget costs, CDG began with the removal of the existing red tile roof. The roof deck was refelted and the tile was reinstalled for a renewed appearance. On each facade, new windows were selected and fitted to complement the historic profile of the existing building. Brick and cut stone were also cleaned while areas with trim and wrought iron were repainted. For student appeal, a new addition was built featuring a solarium with a built-in hot tub. The solarium was conveniently connected to the clubhouse and adjacent to the outdoor swimming pool. In the interior floor plan, CDG included various rooms offering theater entertainment, an intimate lounging area, student gym, and a laundry facility.
.In 2002 Lawson Court
received a Build Oklahoma Award given by the Association of General Contractors.
It was awarded for the quality of the renovation and preservation of the building’s
historic architecture.