Building History

The Ferguson Center is the University’s community center and heart of student life. It includes an array of services and facilities. The University Supply Center, the Mail Center, and a Starbucks are located on the first floor. The Grand Hall, food courts, lounge and TV areas are located on the Second floor. The Student Government offices, Dean of Student’s offices, auditorium , and conference spaces are located on the third floor.

When the building was renovated in 2014, a southwest lobby was added that featured the Minerva inlaid into the terrazzo floor.  Minerva, the Roman Goddess of wisdom adorns the institutional seal of the University of Alabama.  She serves as a symbol of the strength of the University as it creates, translates, and disseminates knowledge.  She is a reminder we are all one community with a shared vision of impacting the world through teaching, research and service. The second floor looks out over the lobby and is lit from above by a soaring skylight. A skylight feature also floods the spacious Grand Hall which encourages social interaction during the day and is also used for entertaining.  It includes rich walnut paneling and the University’s Tartan plaid upholstery is used throughout the space.  This custom fabric was designed by a student from the School of Clothing, Textiles, and Design at the University.

Wayfinding was used extensively in the building to assist visitors.  Each suite of offices is identified with a walnut façade and a crimson colored floating soffit.  Storefront and dimensional letters on a glass backplate complete the design.  The Food Court area is one of the most popular spaces in the building.  Students can choose from a number of options.  The University’s food service venue is second to none.