Elena Zamora O’Shea & First Five Freedom Halls

Elena Zamora O’Shea Hall and First Five Freedom Hall, two residence halls on Texas State University’s San Marcos campus, stand as more than just living spaces for students—they are physical embodiments of the university’s commitment to inclusivity, history, and student success.

With a combined capacity of 598 beds, these five- and six-story halls are designed to enhance the student experience, providing a dynamic blend of community, privacy, and support.

The naming of these buildings is significant, reflecting Texas State’s rich history of progress. In November 2021, the university honored five Black women who integrated the campus in 1963 by renaming one hall as the First Five Freedom Hall. The adjacent Elena Zamora O’Shea Hall was named for the first known Latina student at Texas State, who attended in 1906. These namesakes reinforce the importance of diversity and inclusion in higher education, while the buildings themselves serve as hubs for academic success, personal growth, and meaningful connection.

At the heart of the design for these residence halls is the philosophy that living spaces should enhance the overall student experience, both academically and socially. Each hall features a modern pod-style layout, where groups of 28 students live together in tight-knit communities centered around shared spaces. This configuration, which includes a common lounge, kitchenette, and study area for every two pods, is designed to foster personal connections, encourage socialization, and promote a strong sense of belonging—key elements of a successful residence life program.

The central community building, connecting the two halls, further reinforces this sense of togetherness. It serves as a hub for student activity, featuring spaces for academic support, staff offices, and student engagement. This thoughtful integration of communal and academic functions bridges the gap between living and learning, making the residence halls not just places to sleep, but environments that actively support student success and well-being.

Beyond addressing immediate student needs, the design of Elena Zamora O’Shea and First Five Freedom Halls aligns with Texas State University’s commitment to long-term sustainability. The residence halls were constructed with integrated energy-conserving technologies and sustainable materials, adhering to the university’s rigorous construction standards. This focus on sustainability not only reduces the university’s environmental impact but also teaches students the importance of energy conservation and responsible living.

The project exemplifies our dedication to higher education architecture and creating student-centered environments that support learning, well-being, and inclusivity.

By weaving history, modern student life needs, and sustainability into the design, this project demonstrates the power of architecture to shape the university experience and foster success. From the daily life of its residents to the lasting impact on the Texas State community, these residence halls stand as a testament to thoughtful, forward-thinking design in higher education.