Coming 2026

Southwest Hall is being reborn into a state-of-the-art living and learning community for students. The new building will retain many of the striking design elements of the original century-old building while adding a modern interior. 

Architectural features will be recreated to preserve the historic feel of campus, and similar brick has been chosen from a local supplier. The building will consist of 3 floors, 391 beds and 12 study nooks.

In addition to suite-style accommodations for students, the residence hall will be equipped with study spaces, monitor displays, whiteboards and conference tables; lounge space; and an interior storage room for students’ bicycles. An interior courtyard will provide space for students to socialize, relax and hold events. 

lobby rendering
New Southwest Hall will reflect the best of the past and future

The details of the new residence hall were first revealed in an article in October of last year. Learn about the design philosophy and some of the history behind the 100-year-old building.

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Frequently asked questions

When will the new Southwest Hall open?

The new Southwest Hall aims to open Fall 2026.


Why is a new residence hall needed?

The additional space is greatly needed to accommodate Pacific’s growing residential population. More than 2,000 students currently live on campus, and enrollment continues to rise.

In 2022, the university announced it would guarantee four years of on-campus housing for all undergraduates to combat housing shortages and spiraling rents off campus. This project will add a twelfth residence hall to Pacific’s Stockton Campus.


Why wasn’t the original Southwest Hall renovated?

Pacific initially explored the possibility of renovating the residence hall, but engineers advised it could not be done smartly, safely or efficiently.

The original Southwest Hall was one of the original buildings on the Stockton Campus when Pacific moved to the Central Valley in 1924. Two additional buildings were added to complete the complex in later years. The age of the building and its complexity made the possibility of renovation more difficult.


Given the age of the building, what measures were taken to mitigate asbestos exposure?

The construction management team hired a professional asbestos removal team to remove all asbestos in the building. Demolition of the original Southwest Hall occured when the team's work was complete, after a successful air clearance test.


Will the new building be sustainable?

Pacific has set a goal of obtaining LEED gold certification for the new Southwest Hall; the designation recognizes a building’s sustainable design and operation. In addition to energy efficient lighting, compost bins and other elements, there will be an interior storage room for students’ bicycles.


What are the benefits to living on campus?

Assistant Vice President for Student Life Josh O’Connor says it best: “Studies show students who live on campus perform better academically and are more likely to graduate. They have better access to resources and are in an environment intentionally designed for them to thrive. There is also a greater sense of community, which plays a huge part in student success.”


Are naming opportunities available?

Yes. To learn about naming opportunities in the new Southwest Hall, contact Vice President for Development and Alumni Relations Scott Biedermann at 209.946.2166 or sbiedermann@pacific.edu.
 


For other questions, please contact Josh O'Connor, assistant vice president for student life, at joconnor@pacific.edu.