Consistently ranked as one of the most surf-friendly universities in the country, San Diego State University attracts students as intent on gaining an exceptional education as they are in perfecting their drop-ins. With the renovation of the 1960s-era Zura Hall, the campus is embracing this magnetic aspect of its culture by creating a surfing-focused residence hall.
Originally intended to meet current building codes and seismic standards while adding 21st Century amenities, the renovation is also solving chronic functional problems while meeting the practical needs of SDSU’s large surfing community with help from SDSU’s Surf Research Institute and STOKE Certified teams. The vibrant colors and graphic styles of surfboards originally just served as inspiration for Zura Hall’s new identity until Campus Architect Bob Shulz suggested they be directly incorporated into the building. Now, short boards are focal art pieces at end of each hall. In the main lobby, longboards compliment a large mural that celebrates San Diego’s surfing heritage. Recycled surfboards are used as shading devices on the roof deck.