KU’s Johnson Hall receives significant renovations going into Fall semester

The renovated residence hall reclaims its position as an important piece of KU campus history

By Izzy Diaz

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As KU students settle into the Fall 2026 semester, the recently renovated Johnson Hall remains a refreshing new addition to the South side of campus. Johnson Hall opened with new amenities, such as central air conditioning, lounge and study pods on each floor, an ADA compliant elevator and a communal kitchen on the first floor. 

The hall has space to house 298 students, cementing it as one of the largest traditional residence halls on campus. Unlike any other traditional residence hall, Johnson also features two vestibule-style main entrances, which open to both the new Golden Bear courtyard and towards the Tri-County halls: Lehigh, Schuylkill and Berks Hall.

Assistant Resident Director (ARD) of Johnson Hall, Rachel Nunemaker, is especially excited about the growth of both the Hall itself and the community that resides in it. 

“One of the things I like best about Johnson Hall’s renovations is when you swipe in to enter the building, you are immediately welcomed into the lobby, rec room and kitchen space. It’s so cool to walk into the hall and see residents playing pool, chatting at some of the tables and cooking food in the kitchen.” She says.

This year marks Nunemaker’s third year in Residence Life Housing and Dining, and her first both in her new position and in a traditional-style dorm. Nunemaker praises the tight-knit community that has already formed in Johnson Hall and recognizes her staff as an integral part of that growth. 

“It has been rewarding both being a small part in building that community and in watching my staff play a huge role in what is happening in our hall.” Said Nunemaker.

With the newness of Johnson Hall, the possibilities are endless. In the beginning of September, Johnson was furnished with more kitchen and gaming equipment, such as pool tables and ping-pong tables. Nunemaker says this will likely be the end of renovation and construction, but the hall is still waiting on decorations for their “Well-Being” room, though they are not sure when this will be completed at this time.

Johnson Hall was named after Lillian Elizabeth Johnson, a 1889 KU graduate who would later become the dean of women. With the long-awaited renovations finally being completed, Johnson Hall is finally able to reclaim its position as an important part of KU’s campus history.