University of Dallas
There’s something magical about reimagining a space, not just updating its look, but completely transforming how it feels. That was the vision for this project, where Rae Cole Interiors took a cold, characterless commercial campus security room and turned it into a soulful, warm, and inviting lounge and dining space for the president, his wife, staff, and alumni.
When we first stepped into the space, it was utilitarian at best: blue drywall, commercial carpeting, harsh fluorescent lighting, and visible conduits. It felt disconnected, with no real sense of place or atmosphere, a space that served a function but lacked intention.
The goal for #RCIUniversityofDallas was to create a space that still functioned as a commercial lounge and dining area but felt grounded, beautiful, and purposeful, a place that encourages people to linger and connect.We didn’t want to completely erase the commercial history of the space but, instead, use it as a backdrop. Detailed ceilings and open sight lines became the foundation for a layered, textural design that mixes comfort with intention.
Entry
The custom carved wood entry doors immediately set the tone evoking craftsmanship, quiet elegance, and a sense of Old World Italian charm. Their bold, geometric motif nods to European classical design, while surrounding elements like hand troweled lime plaster walls, terracotta floors, and antique furnishings add warmth and authenticity. Designed by Rae Cole Interiors, the door pattern started as a small sketch. We used our software to explore the scale and proportions, bringing the vision to life in a way that felt both timeless and tailored to the space. This entry sets the stage for what unfolds beyond, inviting, intentional, and rich in detail.
DINING
The dining area was designed to feel grounded and intimate, perfect for shared meals or quiet conversations. Centered beneath a classic iron chandelier, the space is anchored by a large wood table and custom spindle back chairs that bring structure and softness. Framed by a subtle arch and softened with plaster walls, the room balances simplicity with presence. Natural light filters through the oversized window, casting gentle shadows across the terracotta floor and creating a calm, timeless atmosphere that invites people to sit and stay awhile.
lounge
The lounge area was designed for private, smaller, intimate conversations within the space, a place for visitors, faculty, and alumni to gather, reflect, or simply pause between moments. A mushroom setting of four upholstered chairs surrounds a custom round wood coffee table, designed by Rae Cole Interiors down to the scale, wood species, finish, and subtle spindle detailing on the legs. The layout is intentionally open yet grounded, offering comfort without formality. A vintage rug anchors the seating area with texture and soul, while a large potted olive tree by the window introduces movement and life. Natural light pours through the deep-set natural stone framed window, casting shifting shadows across the warm, muted palette. Accents like aged brass lighting, artisan pottery, and layered textiles add to the collected, thoughtful atmosphere. Designed to feel calm and effortless, the lounge supports both individual stillness and shared moments, soft, welcoming, and quietly purposeful.
serving
Tucked within a clean, sculptural arch, the built-in bar adds a quiet layer of hospitality to the space. Designed with both everyday function and special events in mind, it features dark stained cabinetry, a natural quartzite countertop, and a trio of vintage copper pendants that cast a warm, atmospheric glow. Their patina and old world form a nod to traditional European cafés, subtly reinforcing the room’s timeless sensibility. A dedicated beverage station supports campus events, while generous counter space allows for flexible use, whether it's coffee service, casual receptions, or alumni gatherings. The bar feels fully integrated into the architecture, elegant, unobtrusive, and intentionally supportive of how the room is meant to be used.
This project was all about transformation, taking a stark, utilitarian space and giving it soul, story, and purpose. Every element, from the custom millwork to the layered materials, was chosen not just to look beautiful but to support how the space would be used by the University of Dallas community, students, faculty, and the alumni who continue to shape its legacy.
At Rae Cole Interiors, we believe spaces should do more than serve a function, they should evoke feeling. This one does exactly that. See more of this project here.
