Designed for the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences, Gary A. Ransdell Hall is named after Western Kentucky University’s 9th president and was designed to be a signature facility on campus. In addition to a clear, efficient internal layout, this new tool for learning incorporates the latest classroom technology and an abundance of natural light throughout. Classrooms, conference areas, an auditorium, a learning resource center, psychology sciences research laboratories, faculty offices and clinic spaces are all included in this new facility.

Outdoor social and learning spaces are fully incorporated into the design. Courtyards, patios and a stone and brick entry plaza welcome visitors and encourage students and faculty to linger between classes.

This highly-efficient building uses 39 percent less energy than other buildings of its type. Bicycle storage and changing rooms encourage visitors to leave their cars at home. A reflective coating on the roof and parking lots reduce the urban heat island effect. Water efficient landscaping and low flow plumbing fixtures enable the building to use 30 percent less water. Materials with a high percentage of recycled content and those sourced within 500 miles were used extensively, and low-emitting (VOC) adhesives, paints, carpets, and furnishings were selected to protect indoor air quality. The results not only delivered to WKU its first ever LEED Certified project, but a building that ultimately earned LEED Gold.