The Purdue Memorial Union serves as an anchor to the West Lafayette campus. For many, their first impression of Purdue is formed by this building as it serves a variety of roles ranging from a study center to hosting military commissions and weddings. The PMU’s versatility is due in large part to the wide variety of architectural styles seen both inside and out.

OUTSIDE

When first approaching campus from the south-east, the Purdue Memorial Union stands in noticeable contrast to the much newer buildings that neighbor it, like Rawls and Krannert. The red bricks tower above to remind passers-by of the rich tradition of Purdue University while the newly renovated entrances offer a modern invitation that keeps students and faculty focused on the future. The curved forms of its windows are known campus wide as unique to the Union.

INSIDE

The inside of the PMU offers a little something for everyone. In recent years extensive renovations in the basement have created a new world. The new food court system has multiple restaurants, each with its own distinct style, personality, and culture. Together they make a large cafeteria with an endless amount of combinations from which to choose. Many students elect to study in this relaxing atmosphere alone or in groups as they enjoy a bite to eat or their favorite Starbuck’s refreshment.

The first floor suggests a more classical feel in the architecture. The main entrance offers a salute to the “sons and daughters” of Purdue who served and died in World War I. The American and Indiana flags stand proudly over the black and gold cross tile monument in the floor and mere feet from the plaque recognizing those who have fallen in our country’s most recent conflict. The twin ballroom’s size and high ceilings combined with its elegant style make it the perfect setting to almost any large scale event ranging from high school proms to weddings. Upswept arches decorate the hallways, symbolizing the youth and spirit of the Union. Moving between floors, the stained glass window in the southwest stairwell celebrates the diversity of the population that makes up Purdue.

The second floor offers functionality. Elegancy is traded for a more simplistic approach as the gray walls and plain floors lead to conference rooms and offices. This floor holds the Sagamore Restaurant, a beautiful sit-down venue decorated in a fashion fitting the first floor. In contrast, the South Tower is also accessible from the second floor. Climbing the stairs into the tower feels like stepping into an earlier time. The old chairs line the unadorned walls around a simple wooden stage topped by a lone, plain piano.

An environment for everyone can be found inside and out of the Purdue Memorial Union. Whether you’re looking for high-class or somewhere to study for class, you can discover it within the Union. For more information about the Purdue Memorial Union, visit

http://www.union.purdue.edu/HTML/PMU/AboutUs.aspx