An elegant balcony and a grand staircase once again extend between the east and west wings. The concept for the interiors brings Old Main back to the simplicity and humility of its time. The second and third floors of the building were gutted and new interiors constructed. Basing the design on historic photographs, the interiors are enhanced by the construction of a new lobby and handsome oak stair in the location of the originals. Interior detailing captures the spirit and verticality of the Victorian period.
Dormers flood the public spaces with natural light.
The use of flecked, Mission- style oak and an earthy color palette of rich cream, sand and olive, evoke the architectural character of the period, while adding richness and warmth to the spaces. Ceilings reach 12 to 14 feet while doors with transoms add height and reference to the structure. The historic Carson Ballroom, originally part of the Normal School Assembly Hall and located on the east side of the third floor, had been divided and converted to offices in the 1950's. A suspended ceiling hung 15 feet below the original. The mostly preserved condition of the original ceiling was discovered by architects Eslamieh and John Douglas'73.