Front elevation of Madison Hall (The New Young Men’s Christian Association Building) from Alumni Bulletin, 1904 Parish and Schroeder, architects (LH1 .V6 A4 v.4-6 1904-06)

McKim, Mead & White’s ideas for the style and organization of buildings dominated new construction for the next half-century and provided coherence for the growing university. Stanford White created a unified image for an institution transitioning from a regional college to a nationally prominent university. The firm’s reputation ensured that the University could continue to attract the most renowned design professionals to expand upon Jefferson’s vision.

In keeping with White’s strategies for the symmetrical organization of buildings, the Young Men’s Christian Association built Madison Hall in 1904–1905 directly on axis with the Rotunda and Cabell Hall. Madison Hall employs the limited material palette of red brick and white trim and columns, the restrained classical style, and the subdivided façades of White’s buildings. Its rusticated base recalls nearby Fayerweather Hall.