Celebrating Koelbel: Award-Winning Design for the Future
Koelbel’s renovated first floor—honored with two national design awards—sets a bold new standard for sustainable, collaborative learning.
Since 2007, the Koelbel Building has been more than the home of the Leeds School of Business—it’s a vibrant hub for connection, collaboration and creativity, embodying the very spirit of Leeds.
Completed in 2024, renovations to Koelbel’s first floor were recognized for maintaining that spirit of innovation. The redesign earned two prestigious honors: the Learning By Design 2025 Outstanding Project award and an American School and University 2025 Citation—distinctions reserved for projects that demonstrate exceptional innovation, design excellence and meaningful impact on the student experience.
The award-winning design reimagined spaces for Leeds’ Graduate and Undergraduate Programs and the Office of Opening Doors to Achievement—creating a bright, open and sustainable environment. The renovation modernized infrastructure, expanded program capacity and advanced inclusion goals, earning a LEED Silver Certification.
On Feb. 18, 2025, the Leeds community gathered to celebrate what makes Koelbel—and Leeds—special. Thanks to the Koelbel family and project leaders Stephanie Gillin, Jan Pace and Jennifer Schuman, the building’s flexible design ensures it will evolve with Leeds’ programs and ambitions.
Welcome Begins at the Front Door
Glass walls, natural light, wood slat ceilings and living green walls create a warm, sustainable environment—using locally sourced materials to promote wellness and strengthen ties to Boulder’s natural beauty.
(Photo by Jess Blackwell Photography.)
An Exciting Day for Leeds
Tandean Rustandy Endowed Dean Vijay Khatri welcomed guests to a celebration on Feb. 18, 2025, praising faculty, staff, students and alumni for making the vision for redesigned spaces a reality. “Your dedication, passion, energy and innovation inspire everything we do.”
Room To Think
Bright, calming spaces encourage big ideas to grow. “Enhanced lighting and a soothing color palette contribute to a positive and healthy learning atmosphere,” noted Learning By Design.
(Photo by Jess Blackwell Photography.)
A Legacy of Excellence
Thanks to three generations of Koelbel family generosity—including Leeds alumnus Carl Koelbel (MBA’10)—the vision for a world-class, sustainable home for Leeds continues to thrive.
Smiles Included
Gathering spaces, signage and opportunities for shared moments and collaboration create a sense of flow and ease—making Koelbel as welcoming as it is functional.
Come On In
Redesigned Undergraduate and Graduate offices invite connection—starting with a warm “hello” and spaces that encourage meaningful interaction and community engagement.
(Photo by Jess Blackwell Photography.)
An Investment in Students
“Koelbel’s modern design, open spaces and improved layout make it a great environment for students to seek guidance, connect with mentors and prepare to excel,” said Logan Gero (FinBusAn’27). “It truly reflects Leeds’ investment in its students.”
It Takes a Village
The Leeds community came together to celebrate the new spaces and honor the vision, teamwork and dedication that made them possible—from concept to construction to opening day.
A Look Ahead for Business Buffs
Koelbel embodies Leeds’ mission, vision and values—and the renovation is just the beginning. In summer 2025, classrooms were also upgraded to further enhance learning.
You Are the Changemakers
A mural in the Opening Doors to Achievement Office encourages the Leeds community to inspire change—one note at a time. What note will you write?
(Photo by Jess Blackwell Photography.)