LEHIGH UNIVERSITY: University Center Pub Renovation
Dec. 2023 - Dec. 2024
The Clayton University Center is one of the most iconic buildings at Lehigh University. Commonly known as the University Center, or UC, it serves as a central hub for student life, featuring dining options, student lounges, and university offices.
Since the spring 2023 semester, the UC has been undergoing extensive renovations to transform it into a dynamic, state-of-the-art environment for students. The project aims to enhance student life while preserving the building’s historic character, setting Lehigh up for the next generation of students.
Front Facade of the Clayton University Center
During the fall 2023 semester, I was invited, along with two other students, to design two tables for the pub renovation: one for a private dining room and another as a statement banquet table.
I was immediately drawn to the private dining table, captivated by its more secluded placement within the restaurant. In designing this table, I was inspired by the chance to incorporate reclaimed materials—a 10”x10” purlin beam and roof rafters salvaged from the original 1800s structure. This concept felt meaningful, as it would echo Lehigh’s vision for the UC renovation: preserving historical elements while bringing them into a modern context.
Starting with the original concept, I focused on creating a design that honored the source material while bringing an elegant, site-appropriate aesthetic. I quickly decided to use the purlin beam as the main legs of the table, echoing the structural role it once had in the old building. I envisioned the roof rafters forming part of a butcher block tabletop, with the original nail holes left visible for guests to appreciate as they dined.
Connecting the tabletop to the base was another opportunity to honor Lehigh and its historical roots in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Bethlehem, the former home of the Bethlehem Steel Corporation—one of the largest steel providers and naval construction companies until 2008—is an icon of American manufacturing. It felt natural to use powder-coated steel to connect the wooden elements, paying homage to the city while seamlessly aligning with the other metal-based furniture selected for the restaurant.
The final element of the design centers on the middle of the butcher block tabletop. The clients wanted something distinctly representative of Lehigh. While the reclaimed beams and homage to Bethlehem Steel were already incorporated, adding the sun from the Lehigh crest felt like a fitting tribute. The sun, rather than the entire crest, was chosen as it can be easily viewed and appreciated from all seats around the table.
The table is currently in production and will be in the UC once it opens in Spring 2025.
New Third Floor Pub Rendering
Lumber recovered from the renovation
Overhead view of the butcher block tabletop.
Side Profile highlights the chamfered edge around the top and the risers between the purlin beams to make the design overall feel less heavy.
Connection between purlin beams and steel structure, inspired by ceiling beams.
Isometric View.
Metal bands around the bottom of the purlins aim to connect the whole table together as one cohesive design.