Old City Hall + The Vault | Student

The adaptive reuse project of Old City Hall in Lincoln, NE, fuses architecture, landscape, and interiors to create a unique historical experience that brings new life into this cherished building while preserving its architectural heritage. The project serves the immediate walkable community, which ebbs and flows throughout the year, encompassing students, professionals, and visitors to the city and university. The primary objective of this adaptive reuse project is to create a multifunctional space that fosters community engagement, supports local businesses, and revitalizes the downtown area. Focusing on restoring designed elements such as the dark wood, limestone exterior, interior columns and beams, and maintaining the existing exterior plants will allow the building to sustain its cultural importance. By thoughtfully blending the building’s historic character with modern, sustainable elements, re-using forms from the original design, and incorporating the existing landscape, the project will offer an unforgettable destination for its visitors.