Balfour Beatty Begins Work on First New Building at Catawba College in Over Two Decades

Catawba College in Salisbury, North Carolina, has officially broken ground on a major milestone project—its first new campus building in more than 20 years. In partnership with design-build team members Page and LandDesign, Balfour Beatty is leading construction of a new 130-bed residence hall designed to elevate student living and learning experiences.

The groundbreaking ceremony, held April 29, marked the start of construction on the 42,879-square-foot facility, which will serve upper-division students and is expected to open in Fall 2026. The building has been thoughtfully planned to function as more than just a place to live—it's a hub for academic and social engagement, blending private rooms with collaborative spaces.

Mark Warner, Lead Designer at Page, said the design integrates modern student needs with historic aesthetics. “The residence hall is designed as a living-learning hub for upper-division students, pairing modern residential spaces with the collegiate gothic architectural style that defines Catawba’s historic campus,” Warner said.

Each floor will include three dedicated study rooms, and the ground level will feature a large community gathering area and an expansive outdoor patio to encourage student connection. Its location at the heart of campus will reinforce walkability and easy access to dining, academic buildings, and student services.

Sustainability is a core element of the project. The residence hall is being built to meet Passive House Institute US (PHIUS) standards—one of the highest benchmarks for energy efficiency and indoor air quality. With a target energy use intensity (EUI) of 35 or less, the project incorporates several advanced building systems including geothermal heating and cooling, airtight construction, high-performance insulation, and energy recovery ventilation.

“We are honored to partner with Catawba College on this monumental project,” said Jeff Sandeen, Balfour Beatty president in the Carolinas. “Together with Page and LandDesign, we are committed to delivering a living-learning community that reflects the university’s values and advances its vision for sustainability and student engagement.”

The new hall is more than an investment in infrastructure—it’s a direct commitment to student life and long-term institutional growth. As the college continues to evolve, this residence hall sets a precedent for future developments with its focus on community, comfort, and environmental stewardship.

With completion scheduled for 2026, Catawba College students can look forward to a next-generation living space that promotes both well-being and academic success in a sustainable setting.

Originally reported by Balfour Beatty.