Making the Old New: Agile Design and Historic Rehabilitation at UF's Norman Hall

At Walker Architects, working with historic buildings is more than simply updating old structures—it’s a process of discovery. By respecting a building’s past while adapting it for modern needs, we create environments that support contemporary uses without losing the character that made them significant in the first place. Our agile design approach helps us address changing project requirements, ensuring each outcome aligns with both the original intent and today’s functional demands.

A Vision Far Beyond HVAC

One project that illustrates this approach is the rehabilitation of Norman Hall at the University of Florida. Originally envisioned as an HVAC upgrade with a conference center addition, the project evolved once we took a closer look at the building’s underlying needs. Historic structures often bear evidence of a “reaction train”—layers of modifications made over decades to fix immediate issues, which can lead to disjointed spaces. Norman Hall was no exception. By peeling back these layers of ad hoc changes, we reconnected with the facility’s original layout and purpose, creating more cohesive, welcoming areas.

Historic photo showing classroom with original decorative ceiling.

Norman Hall historic classroom before rehabilitation. The decorative ceiling is hidden by a drop ceiling installed when air conditioning was added.

Ceiling detail

Historic classroom after rehabilitation

Rediscovering the Building’s Intent

With essential MEPF (mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire protection) upgrades as a foundation, our team reorganized the interior to bring natural light deeper into the building and improve circulation. In doing so, we resolved many longstanding inefficiencies.

At the west entrance, for example, we restored a once-lost vestibule and introduced a food market, including a Starbucks. This decision addressed a specific challenge for students and faculty who needed access to refreshments without leaving the building, all while paying homage to the building’s history.

Agile Design in Action

Norman Hall’s transformation extended beyond basic upgrades and cosmetic changes. The agile design process allowed us to continually reassess and realign the space with the College of Education’s evolving needs. By returning much of the structure to its original form—rather than building on layers of outdated modifications—we made it easier for the building to accommodate modern teaching methods and new technologies.

Original entrance

Entrance after rehabilitation

Looking Ahead

This careful combination of preservation and forward-thinking design earned Norman Hall recognition, including the BD+C Reconstruction Award and LEED Gold certification. More importantly, it revitalized a historic campus icon and provided the university community with functional, inviting spaces that serve current demands without discarding the building’s past.

At Walker Architects, “making the old new” means uncovering a structure’s inherent strengths and guiding it toward a more useful, welcoming future. Whether a client starts with a clear plan or only a hint of a vision, our team listens—both to the building and the people who rely on it. By balancing history and innovation, we create places that honor their heritage while supporting the needs of today and tomorrow.