Inspired Design

In a nod to the beauty of the building’s original Art Deco design, the historic 1936 facade has been preserved and restored to honor the history of the former Martin Biological Laboratory and its legacy at Swarthmore College. While most of the Wissahickon schist fieldstone and carved limestone facade has been preserved, the building’s original front stairs were removed and the front door lowered so that all building users can now enter by the front door. 

Biophilic design, the incorporation of natural forms, patterns, and relationships into a building, inspired Martin’s interiors. Finishes and decorative details throughout the building bring themes from nature inside, from the flooring pattern to the restored cast botanical medallions and metal chevron panels, with an aesthetic also carried over from the building’s original Art Deco style.  

In harmony with an interior design inspired by natural shapes and elements, multi-media artwork by students and faculty members will be exhibited on a rotating basis in the Media Arts Gallery and throughout the building. As a hub for arts and technology on our campus, Martin Hall will draw together theater, film, and technological innovation to provide dynamic learning opportunities and rich programming for our campus and local community. Shared seating throughout the building will encourage spontaneous conversation and cross-departmental collaboration.

Equitable use by all was a driving force in Martin Hall’s design, which was led by a project team certified in the JUST framework. This framework is designed to strengthen inclusion, equity, and engagement across organizations. Universal access continues inside the building, with spaces designed to be easily comprehensible and navigable by incorporating strong accent colors and using access to daylight to reinforce orientation. The Arts Plaza between Martin Hall, Lang Music Building, and the Lang Performing Arts Center is designed to host interdisciplinary arts and cultural events for our entire local community, and is universally accessible.