Southern Illinois University Foundation

With a mission to make a difference in the lives of students, faculty, staff and the future of SIU, the Southern Illinois University Foundation decided it was time for a new home to better carry on their mission. The 44,401-sf project is the unofficial ‘front porch’ to the university as the site sits perfectly to open into the campus.

This new multipurpose building makes a statement with a curved glass wall and colonnade as its entrance. The exterior features an intricate design combination of red brick, decorative block and EIFS cladding.

The facility includes new offices for staff and faculty of the foundation, conference rooms, storage spaces and a new Welcome Center. The offices feature warm wood elements, terrazzo flooring and tasteful usage of the SIU colors throughout. Large conference rooms and a c-suite feature elegant mill work and trim.

Future students walk through the Welcome Center on campus tours as they start their journey to become an SIU Saluki. In addition to being a student recruitment tool, the Welcome Center is a multi-use space that the Foundation can use for their own fundraising and celebration events as well as rent for banquets, weddings and other large events. This space is complete with a full catering kitchen.

Hafer partnered with Design Works who served as Design Architect.