Historic Resource Survey Form : McKenzie Hall

4 pagesMcKenzie Hall was completed in 1970 to house the Law School, which had outgrown it previous home, Fenton Hall. McKenzie has an interesting interplay of Modern architecture elements with strong references to Fenton Hall. This is accomplished through its massing, brick building material, and even the color of the brick veneer. With its exposed concrete construction, it is a Modern interpretation of Fenton, the campus’ first library and an important resource to the University. Designed by architects Wilmsen, Endicott and Unthank, McKenzie Hall is a fine example of the Brutalist style with its overscale geometric massing and use of rough cast concrete for textural effect. Wilmsen, Endicott, Unthank, all graduates of the UO School of Architecture, designed numerous Eugene buildings together and individually. Decorative elements are limited to the strong geometric play of shapes and the contrast between building materials. The extensive modern landscape planning by Lloyd Bard and Associates adds to the building’s potential significance. One of the most important events to have occurred at McKenzie Hall was the address given at its grand opening as the Law Center by United States Supreme Court Justice William O. Douglas. It is bounded on the south by the terminus of the historic Deady Hall Walk Axis and on the east by the Dads’ Gates Axis