Vernon S. Broyles Jr. Leadership Center

The Vernon S. Broyles Leadership Center at Columbia Theological Seminary exemplifies a balance between preservation and innovation, merging a rehabilitated historic structure with a modern educational addition. The project preserved the Collegiate Gothic character of the 1930s Simons-Law dormitory while incorporating adaptive reuse strategies to accommodate seminar rooms, offices, and smaller classrooms. The new academic wing, designed with a contemporary approach, features large tiered lecture halls and flexible classrooms. Sustainable elements were integrated throughout the design, including custom-designed daylight baffles, rainwater collection for irrigation, and a highly efficient Variable Refrigerant Flow mechanical system. The project also utilized locally harvested wood and materials with high recycled content, contributing to its sustainable footprint and aligning with its LEED Gold certification goals. The new wing’s transparent material palette respects the historic context while enhancing the campus vernacular, creating a landmark teaching space that serves both the institution and its community.