History of the Club

Science Hall was constructed in 1908 as part of Tempe Normal School and was later renamed the Fine Arts Annex. This building was the second structure in the original “Quad” sited along with Old Main around a central fountain feature in what is today designated as the “Historic District” of the University. The building is the second oldest building on campus.

In 1949 a major remodel was completed changing the original function of the facility from a science hall to a fine arts facility. It was renamed the Fine Arts Annex. In 1985 a special University Club task force secured approval from the University to consider the Fine Arts Annex for use as a University Club.

In 1987 the Fine Arts Annex was placed on the National Register and the Arizona Register of Historic Places.

After $400,000 of structural improvements approved by the Arizona Board of Regents, in 1989 the University secured funding approval from ABOR to begin design of the University Club based on a minimum membership role of 500.

In 1990 the University received approval from ABOR to release the project for construction bidding. In December the construction contract was awarded for $1.1 million.

The purpose of the University Club is the promotion of collegiality and communication between members of the university and the community. The University Club will provide quality dining, meeting and lounge facilities in a club atmosphere, which has appropriate ambiance suitable to the stature of its members.

Primary public spaces are the entry foyer, The Bistro dining room, outdoor patio, the Club room, South dining room, North room, and the Thoren room.

Major architectural features of the University Club are: a full historic restoration of the building facade; a central carriage way entry drive with a circular drop-off; and interior grand central staircase to the second floor.

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