The Council of Independent Colleges: Historic Campus Architecture Project

Library (Kresge Hall wing of Academic Building)

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Library (Kresge Hall Wing of the Academic Building), Madonna University

Academic Building (plan, including Library and Kresge Hall wing), Madonna University

Institution Name: Madonna University
Original/Historic Place Name: Library (Kresge Hall wing of Academic Building)
Location on Campus: 36600 Schoolcraft Rd.
Date(s) of Construction:

1984	original construction Kamp DiComo Associates

Designer: Kamp DiComo Associates
Type of Place: Individual building
Style: Contemporary (Glossary)
Significance: culture, education
Narrative: see below
References: see below

Materials:

Foundation: cement block

Walls: brick, steel, and stone

Roof: rubber membrane; originally asphalt

Function:

1984-present (2006)	auditorium
1984-present (2006)	library (with exhibit gallery)

Narrative:
The plan of Madonna University reflects both picturesque and open architectural and landscape design. The Academic building is constructed adjoining the fountain pond across from the residence and dining halls, offering a soothing and serene view on the spacious campus. The soccer playing field is situated in a large open area between the administration offices and the residential halls within sight of the Felician Sisters Italianate Motherhouse chapel dome. Walks may be taken alongside the Academic building and its extending classroom and library wings, over to and around the perimeter of the pond, and through the open and forested areas that adjoin the campus proper. Furthermore, there are strolls to the St. Francis gazebo at the pond, or to a special shrine dedicated to Mary beyond the northern wing of the Motherhouse property, and/or to the St. Francis sculpture next to the serpentine wall at the front of the library wing.

The campus' open plan and low buildings enhance the feeling of spaciousness and free movement between in and outdoors; these walks are a special integrating feature of the Madonna campus plan.

References:

Kujawa, Rose Marie. Madonna Milestones, A History of Madonna University, 1937-1977. Livonia, MI: Madonna College Press, [1986].