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Duquesne's Hogan Dining Hall

A furniture refresh for the campus dining hall
where students eat, study, and gather.
Completed: August 2026
Location: Pittsburgh, PA
Scope: Furniture
Architect: Tipton Associates
General Contractor: Rycon Construction

The Challenge:

Designing A Shared Space For All

Duquesne University’s Hogan Dining Hall was ready for its biggest refresh in nearly 15 years. The furniture was dated, and the university wanted a fresh look shaped by feedback from students and the broader campus community. Students visited Hogan throughout the day for different reasons. Some grabbed a quick bite between classes or met up with friends, while others came to study or take a break. Hogan also had to host larger groups, student events, and programming. Each of those uses called for a different kind of seat, from a spot to focus alone to tables sized for small and larger groups. A few booths in the plan also required custom solutions.

The Solution:

Options for Every Purpose

Franklin answered each of those needs with a mix of seating and tables in multiple postures and a range of seat counts. Working closely with Tipton Associates on the layouts and specifications, the team planned a dining hall where every kind of visit had a place.
  • Study nooks and booths: dedicated study nooks and booths gave students a spot to focus between classes.
  • Group seating: tables for small and larger groups gave friends a place to meet over a meal.
  • Room for events: the layout left space for student events and programming.
  • Open floor plan: an open, brighter floor made it easier to move through the dining hall.

The Impact:

Ready for Campus Life

The completed dining hall answered each of the students’ needs that the feedback specified. Students could find a booth to study in, a table for a meal with friends, or room for a larger campus event, all in the same dining hall.

Shaped by student feedback, Hogan has reopened as a place for Duquesne’s campus to eat, study, and collaborate under one roof.
"“The furniture install is coming along nicely. The furniture has a very solid feel. I think it is going to be very well received.”"
Duquesne University Project Manager

Take the First Step
Towards Your New Space

Creating a space tailored to your organization can be complex, but starting your project with us is simple. With decades of expertise in furniture, flooring, and interior construction, we’ll assemble a team of specialists tailored to your industry and project type. Together, we’ll guide you through every step to bring your vision to life.