Jarvis Hall Renovated

A $4 million renovation of Jarvis Residence Hall, one of the original buildings on the East Carolina University campus, will combine modern conveniences with the look the building had when it was new, almost 90 years ago.

Named for an East Carolina founder, Gov. Thomas J. Jarvis (1836 – 1915), Jarvis Hall was built in 1909. It is the only surviving early building still used for its initial purpose. Manny Amaro, university housing director, said the modifications will include extensive interior changes. New bathrooms, stairways, walls and doors will be installed to comply with current state codes.

Elevators, fire sprinklers, and upgrades to plumbing, electrical and the heating and cooling systems are included the project. The rooms on both floors will be converted into suites and apartments. A new multipurpose room and courtyard will be added to the exterior.

“Since Jarvis has such a long history on campus, it’s important that we preserve it and restore some of the fixtures it had when it was new,” Amaro said. He said the ceilings will be lowered to conceal computer wiring and period-style chandeliers and walls sconces will replace modern lighting. When completed, Jarvis Hall will have a terra-cotta tile roof as it did originally, thus matching the roofs of adjacent Cotten and Fleming Halls.

The remodeling project was designed by architect William A. Nichols Jr. of Lee-Nichols-Helper of Charlotte. The cost of the project, an estimated $4 million, will be covered by student residence fees. Completion is expected by the fall of 1999. When the residence hall reopens, it will have a capacity to house about 160 students.