Purdue Memorial Union ground floor reopens as Atlas family’s new market

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. – The ground floor of the Purdue Memorial Union, now known as the Atlas Family Marketplace, reopens Monday, Jan.10, just in time for the start of the spring semester, after a $ 47 million renovation. 67,000 square feet and offers 12 retail restaurants.

“We thank the family of Bob and Judy Atlas, as well as our other generous donors, for making this remarkable renovation possible,” said Matt Folk, President and CEO of the Purdue for Life Foundation and Vice President of University Development. and the engagement of elders. . “The Atlas Family Marketplace is wonderful. It is a must-see destination for alumni and guests visiting the campus and an incredible resource for students, faculty and staff.

The Marketplace offers 200 additional indoor seating – ranging in capacity from 700 to 900 – with a variety of furniture options to enhance versatility and collaboration. Better technology, more electrical outlets, and modern, family-friendly bathrooms also make the ground floor more convenient for visitors.

Two new terraces on the south side of the Union provide more natural light inside and also add 11,000 square feet of outdoor dining and collaboration space with nearly 150 additional seats and two fireplaces.

“The renovation of the existing space and the creation of the two new terraces has truly transformed the Purdue Memorial Union,” said Jay Wasson, associate vice president of physical facilities. “Through this project, we have not only provided more space in a key and iconic location of the campus, but we have also provided modern amenities and increased the accessibility and vibrancy of the ground floor while emphasizing the history of the building.

Preserving the Union’s heritage was a key part of the renovation, and in addition to the new amenities, visitors will find touches of campus memorabilia throughout the marketplace.

When the State Street redevelopment project was underway several years ago, sections of streetcar tracks around 150 years old were found and salvaged under the pavement not far from the Union. This same rail is now used as a footrest for the Sports Bistreaux of Walk On.

“Throughout the renovated space, you’ll find nods to the traditions and history of boilermakers,” said Zane Reif, director of the Purdue Memorial Union. “From the inclusion of the limestone sign previously located at the corner of State and Grant Streets to the recreation of a 1927 campus plan, visitors will see the past feature prominently in the modernized marketplace.”

The limestone panel, previously positioned outside the Purdue Memorial Union at the corner of State and Grant streets, has been joined by a stained glass window to create a welcoming moment at the bottom of the main stairs of the Great Hall. (Purdue University Photo / Rebecca McElhoe) Download Image

Additional pieces of college history are captured through creative imagery and storytelling opportunities. The original windows and architectural details from the construction of the 1924 building remain in the renovated space, and the original exterior walls uncovered during the demolition are now a feature of the market.

The renovated space offers something for students, staff, faculty, alumni and visitors.

“Through our partnership with Aramark, the Atlas Family Marketplace offers exciting new dining concepts that are available to both the campus and the surrounding community,” said Reif.

The Atlas Family Marketplace has 12 restaurants:

• Aatish – Contemporary Halal cuisine.
• BBQ area – Simmered meats, regional sauces and savory side dishes.
• Boilermaker Market @ PMU – Retail store with fresh, quality food and drink.
• Chef Bill Kim’s – Asian dumplings and bowls made with authentic ingredients.
• Fresh Fare – Fresh flavors with an emphasis on dairy and gluten free options.
• Latin Inspired by Chef John Manion – South American flavors and Latin dishes from Brazil and Argentina.
• Zen – Create your own Poke in a bowl and boba teas.
• Pizza & Parm Shop – Detroit style pizza with a caramelized cheese crust and creative Parmeson sandwiches.
• Sol Toro – Mexican flavors with a modern twist.
• Starbucks® – Premium quality specialty coffee.
• Sushi Boss – Fresh and personalized sushi.
• The sports bars of Walk On – Homemade Louisiana-inspired cuisine with a game-day touch: burgers, wraps, salads, seafood specialties.

Many establishments accept student meal snacks, and the hours of operation for each location will be included on the Purdue Food Company website.

“We have already planned a few events and are working to complete the full program to take advantage of the new opportunities offered by the renovation,” said Reif. “The Union has always been a hub of activity for our students and the community, and after months of building we are ready to welcome everyone again. “

Details of the event are available on the Purdue Memorial Union website and will continue to be updated over the coming weeks. Campus visitors are required to wear face masks indoors and follow Protect Purdue guidelines.

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Media contact: Tim Doty, [email protected]