The Comal Building renovation transformed a historic academic structure in the heart of Texas State University’s San Marcos campus into a modern teaching, research, and faculty facility for the Computer Science and Philosophy departments. Located within the campus Historic District, the project focused on adaptive reuse and interior rehabilitation while preserving and restoring the building’s significant exterior character.
Originally constructed in the early 20th century as a K–12 and teacher education building, the Comal Building held strong historic and alumni significance but no longer met contemporary academic, life-safety, or accessibility standards. RSA reconfigured the interior to support current pedagogy, introducing flexible classrooms, computer labs, conference rooms, faculty offices, and collaborative learning spaces. Strategic removal and relocation of vertical circulation improved functionality and utilization, while a portion of the second floor was removed to create a grand, light-filled ground-floor lobby capable of serving as both a circulation and gathering space.
The exterior restoration was informed by analysis of original construction documents and historic research. Period-accurate paint colors were reapplied, damaged cast stone elements were selectively repaired or replaced, windows were upgraded, and the building envelope was waterproofed. Advanced technical studies, including a WUFI analysis of the clay block load-bearing walls, informed building envelope and reroofing strategies, while targeted structural reinforcement allowed the building to adapt to new spatial configurations.
Today, the Comal Building is a prominent feature along the campus pedestrian mall and a highlight of university tours. The project preserves an important piece of Texas State’s architectural heritage while delivering a highly functional, flexible academic environment that supports both disciplines and enhances daily student life.
