Cleveland State University (CSU) is pleased to announce the renovation of two of its most historic buildings: Fenn Tower, one of the campus’s most recognizable landmarks, and Fenn Hall, home to many of CSU’s STEM-related teaching and research labs. The projects are part of Cleveland State United, CSU’s multi-year strategic plan to advance academic offerings, foster student success, and expand talent development for the region. 

“CSU is one of the most important institutions we have in Cleveland,” said CSU Board of Trustees Chair Tim Cosgrove. “This University changed my life, and it is a privilege to help enrich the lives of current and future students – the renovations of Fenn Hall and Fenn Tower will do that for years to come.” 

Fenn Hall
The Fenn Hall renovation is Phase I of creating Cleveland State’s new Biomedical Discovery Complex, designed to offer state-of-the-art facilities for students and faculty researchers pursuing scholarship in STEM-related fields that help fuel the economy of Northeast Ohio. Phase I will include facility renovation that will result in the creation of over 20,000 square feet of research lab space, specifically focused on biomedical science and engineering. It is budgeted at $32M, which has been secured through state capital funding. Phase II of the Biomedical Discovery Complex, still in the planning phase, is expected to enhance the new labs with high-tech classroom, presentation and collaboration facilities.  

“The labs that will be completed in Phase I are central to our extensive STEM academic and research program at CSU. We are designing the labs to be future-focused interdisciplinary community spaces where researchers, both students and faculty, from across disciplines can collaborate, teach and explore innovations in science, medicine and engineering,” said Dr. Nigamanth Sridhar, CSU senior vice president and provost. 

Phase I design and site preparation is underway. Construction will begin in Summer 2026, with a completion date in early 2028. 

Fenn Tower
Built in 1930 in the Art Deco style, Fenn Tower once served as not only a residence hall, but home for the entirety of CSU’s predecessor, Fenn College. Closed in summer of 2024 for repairs, Fenn Tower will reopen in August 2026 as a first-year residence hall. It will feature a newly updated façade, renovated student rooms, strengthened infrastructure, redesigned secure resident-only entrances, as well as multiple spaces for students to gather, study and relax.  

“Fenn Tower holds a special place in the history of Cleveland State, and the City of Cleveland. Its renovation represents both respect for our history and excitement for our future,” said CSU President Dr. Laura Bloomberg. “We are preserving the past while also creating a refreshed living environment where our students feel a sense of connection, support and belonging. We are creating an environment where everyone can thrive.” 

The residence hall rooms have been reimagined to provide sustainable and energy-efficient modern spaces for 400 students. Improvements include new bathrooms, updated sleeping and living areas, and expanded community spaces on each floor to support academic and social engagement. In addition, enhanced security and privacy will be provided through a residents-only entrance. 

Public spaces will also receive significant upgrades, including a restored first floor lobby, student lounges, study areas, a movie theatre, and a third-floor game room and ballroom to support residential programming and community-building initiatives. 

“I remember going to history class on the fourth floor of Fenn Tower with Dr. Holmes, an experience that remains unforgettable. We are fortunate to be able to steward this iconic building so future generations can be inspired by its historic significance as well as its beautiful views of the city and Lake Erie,” added Chair Cosgrove.