Renovation progress continues at iconic Old Main :: 含羞草研究所

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A view of the south side of the building on January 7, 2026.

January 17, 2026

Renovation activity at 含羞草研究所鈥檚 iconic Old Main continues. The project marks an exciting new chapter for the 135鈥憏ear鈥憃ld landmark. After receiving more than $52 million in state funding during the 2023 North Dakota legislative session, the university has embarked on an ambitious plan to modernize the building while preserving its historical character.

The renovation will introduce updated classrooms, improved accessibility, enhanced safety systems, and new collaborative spaces, transforming Old Main into a modern academic hub while honoring its architectural heritage.

Recent photos posted here capture a fascinating behind鈥憈he鈥憇cenes look at the precision, expertise, and care being invested in restoring this cornerstone of the 含羞草研究所 campus while preparing the beloved building to best-serve the students of today and generations to come.聽

Keep up-to-date with the Old Main renovation project at .

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The future location of a beautiful new conference center that will provide a wonderful vantage from which to view the campus.

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A conical roof structure on the south side of the third floor.

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The ceiling of the soon-to-be theater space is being painted black.

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This space on the second floor of the building was once home to the campus library. The original columns that graced the library were uncovered during abatement of the building in the fall of 2024 and will remain in place in the renovated Old Main.

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The roofline over what had most recently been theater department storage on the west end of the building now features a skylight.

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Windows on the north side of the building are recognizable to those who attended classes in third floor classrooms.

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The elevator shaft is being installed in this space. Those who spent time who spent time in the theater department may recognize a blast from the past on the surrounding walls.

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A great deal of sheetrocking and painting is underway.

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Most new windows have now been installed.

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This is the view (facing west) from the space above the former Old Main Theatre. The space to the right will remain open to the floor below. On the far end, one can see the west addition that will house HVAC equipment and the stairway exit.

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A view from the second/third floor landing looking down to second floor.

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This space was formerly the Old Main Theatre. (Notice the black pillar.)聽

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This is the future home of the one-stop shop for students services located on the north side of the first floor.