DES MOINES, Iowa — A historic Drake University building is getting a facelift.
Renovations began at Morehouse Hall on Thursday, kicking off the beginning phases of a $1.75 million project.
The 1930s building, originally a residence hall, will soon serve as a student center with the university's first "intercultural space." The renovations will also construct a community area outside, named Sammons Plaza for the financial group that donated to the project.
Officials say the building will give the old building new life.
"This is a building that's been around for decades and we're now going to be able to repurpose into its next iteration. Its next life. And that's a great reason to celebrate it. It's a beautiful building for that. I just love this structure. It's gorgeous on the outside and it's going to be gorgeous on the inside as we get done with this renovation," Drake University President Marty Martin said.
In a February release about the project, Martin said in part:
“I cannot wait to see how this space will transform our campus community .. Current Drake students and those who are still to come will deeply benefit from Sammons Financial Group’s impactful gift and continued generosity.”