Louise Freer Hall, University gymnasium in Urbana, United States.
Louise Freer Hall is a university building on the Illinois campus with Georgian Revival styling, featuring balanced proportions and classical architectural details. A distinctive curved entrance ramp marks the main approach to the structure.
The building was completed in 1930 during the Great Depression and represented the final architectural contribution by Charles A. Platt to the campus master plan. It marks an important moment in the university's expansion during that era.
The structure transformed from a Women's Gymnasium to house the Department of Kinesiology, reflecting changes in academic programs and physical education requirements over time.
The building now houses the Department of Kinesiology and underwent significant renovations in 2017. These upgrades improved accessibility and modernized the interior while preserving the historical character of the structure.
The hall once served as the home venue for the Illinois Fighting Illini women's swimming team and included specialized training pools. Few visitors realize how the building's athletic focus shifted with changing university programs over the decades.
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