higher education architecture / athletics / student life

DESIGNING CONNECTED CAMPUS EXPERIENCES

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Higher Education

a legacy built on your experience

Neumann/Smith Architecture provides architecture, interior design, and planning services for a range of project types and markets. Since 1968, our firm has specialized in mixed-use, higher education, adaptive reuse, and hospitality across the United States. Leveraging our diverse experience, we partner with colleges and universities to design one-of-a-kind projects that elevate the campus experience while enhancing long-term value for institutions and the communities they serve.

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  • welcome sign at northern michigan university northern center with wooden accent wall and digital screen
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designing campus gateways

Whether updating an existing student union or designing something entirely new, our work is centered on creating welcoming, adaptable environments that support learning, engagement, and well-being. Our in-depth, in-person collaboration with students, faculty, and staff ensures that every design decision reflects the people who use the space every day.

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  • WSU STUDENT CENTER
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hospitality in higher education

We apply hospitality design principles to higher education environments that enhance arrival, branding, and shared campus spaces. The result is campus architecture that feels welcoming, intuitive, and aligned with institutional identity.

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rendering of central michigan university golf center

sports + recreation

Athletic and recreation facilities play a critical role in student wellness, recruitment, and campus culture. We collaborate closely with institutions to create athletic environments that serve both competitive programs and the broader campus community.

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  • greater midland community center pool
  • mezzanine track around the basketball court with adventure track through the center
  • 24 hour fitness area with framed mirror and gym equipment
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cmu merrill dining hall rendering

rebranding food service delivery

Dining spaces are central to student experience and daily campus life. Our recent work reimagines food service delivery through branded national partners, dining halls, and flexible campus dining environments. We focus on flow, visibility, and identity to create spaces that feel current, efficient, and aligned with institutional goals while supporting evolving student needs.

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northern michigan university student housing aerial photo

student housing

Student housing is central to campus life, supporting academic success and a strong sense of community. Our residence hall designs balance privacy and social connection through comfortable living spaces, shared amenities, and flexible common areas.

Working closely with institutions, we align housing with enrollment goals, budgets, and long-term campus plans, creating student-centered environments that support recruitment, retention, and everyday campus life.

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higher education team

nsa headshot gene carroll

GENE CARROLL, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP

executive vice president
gcarroll@neumannsmith.com
248.302.4678

nsa headshot stan cole

STAN COLE, AIA, LEED AP

vice president
scole@neumannsmith.com
248.514.7885

nsa headshot jim stock

JIM STOCK, RA, LEED AP

design director
jstock@neumannsmith.com
248.508.7912

nsa headshot sara sarkisian bell

SARA SARKISIAN BELL, RA, NCARB, LEED AP

senior project manager
ssarkisianbell@neumannsmith.com
248.697.8575

let’s connect

When you see our projects, you may notice they’re all unique and authentic. One thing they share is their positive impact – on the user, the client, and the community. Let’s discuss how we can elevate the experience of your next project!