Wheaton College McAlister Hall Renovation

Mortenson completed a comprehensive renovation of McAlister Hall, a 57,000-square-foot, two-story academic building located in the heart of the Wheaton College campus. Formerly home to the Conservatory of Music, the revitalized facility now consolidates the College’s Modern and Classical Language department, bringing programs previously dispersed across several buildings together under one roof.

The project involved a full interior demolition and rebuild of the first and second floors to create modern classroom environments, collaborative areas, and two flexible learning spaces. Mortenson replaced all mechanical and electrical systems, upgraded life-safety infrastructure, and transitioned the building from an outdated steam system to an efficient VAV system.

A notable design feature includes a new glass wall installation on the south elevation, introducing abundant natural light into a reimagined student lounge. Because this required cutting into the historic façade, the team developed several custom brick mock-ups to ensure a seamless match with the building’s original exterior.

Throughout the project, the team navigated significant supply chain constraints—most notably delays in the specified air handler unit. By proactively coordinating with the College, Mortenson implemented a strategy that allowed McAlister Hall to open on schedule, with the upgraded air handler slated for installation over the summer. Leveraging Mortenson’s supply-chain entity, Blu54, the team also accelerated delivery of linear light fixtures, improving lead times by three weeks.

To further support campus operations, Mortenson planned a phased turnover of the adjacent parking lot, allowing the College to regain full use of the area well before project completion.

The renewed McAlister Hall now offers Wheaton College a modern, efficient, and thoughtfully restored academic home that honors the building’s history while supporting future generations of Wheaton College students.