Judson University Unveils Innovative Live-Work Architecture Center

The grand opening of **Glunz Hall** at **Judson University** marks a significant development in architecture education, providing a hybrid live-work residence and design studio for the university’s master of architecture program. This initiative is a collaboration with the **Future Architect Fund**, a nonprofit dedicated to nurturing the next generation of architects. The event took place in **Elgin** and was celebrated recently.

The transformation of the former mid-century bank building, located at **28 N. Grove Ave.**, was undertaken by **Studio Vertez**, a local architecture firm. This redesign aims to create a space where graduate architecture students can live, work, and learn. The project merges **historic preservation** with innovative design principles, creating an enriching environment for students.

“It’s hard to imagine a more fitting place to immerse oneself in the study of architecture than this historic building at the heart of an architecturally rich city like Elgin,” said **Benjamin Glunz**, founder of the Future Architect Fund. He emphasized the vision to provide students with a bridge from academic study to practical application within their local communities.

The establishment of Glunz Hall is a testament to collaborative efforts in the architecture field. The project was realized through coordinated efforts, including donated design services, a discounted property acquisition, and contributions from building product partners. The total cost of the project reached **$4.2 million**, spanning over **31⁄2 years**. This funding includes the **$200,000** purchase price of the building, **$400,000** from the downtown Elgin tax increment-financing district, and **$85,000** from a city of Elgin sprinkler grant. Notably, all expenses were covered without impacting Judson University’s operational budget.

Glunz Hall serves both as a physical and symbolic investment in the future of the architecture profession. The facility comprises **13 apartments**, which can accommodate approximately **40 students**. Additionally, it features the **Glunz Studio for Architecture and Urbanism**, a collaborative design space that allows graduate students to engage in hands-on projects within a simulated real-world environment.

Located on the ground floor of Glunz Hall, the studio’s rental costs will be integrated into the students’ room and board fees. This approach ensures that all students have equal access to this unique educational opportunity.

In-kind donations from various building industries have played a crucial role in this project. Contributions came from reputable companies such as **Behr Paint Company**, **DuPont Corian**, **Delta Faucet**, and many others. Each material and product serves as a practical learning tool for student residents, making Glunz Hall a genuine living laboratory for building material science.

For those interested in learning more about the **Future Architect Fund**, additional information is available on their website at [www.futurearchitectfund.org](http://www.futurearchitectfund.org). More details about **Judson University** can be found at [www.judsonu.edu](http://www.judsonu.edu).

This innovative project not only enhances educational opportunities for aspiring architects but also reinforces the importance of community engagement and support in shaping future professionals.