Orlando Espinosa Associates

How Smart Foodservice Design Revitalized Bruce Dining Hall for University of North Texas Students

Client Situation

OEA was commissioned to provide foodservice facilities design and project management services for the popular University of North Texas dining facility, Bruce Dining Hall.

However, UNT Dining Services understood that the current operations – the dining room, serving area and kitchen – were worn and in need of major upgrades and a refresh so students could enjoy a revitalized space, expanded menu selection and new points of service.

OEA Solution

OEA studied evolving foodservice technology, millennial dining behaviors, and operational needs to design a cost-efficient layout that maximized both labor and equipment investments—while keeping the project on budget and on schedule.

The Bruce Dining Hall received a complete facelift and concept upgrade. Out went the institutional straight-line counters; in came dynamic action stations offering variety, customization, and fresh service styles. Updated colors and finishes created an engaging retail-style atmosphere, bringing energy and excitement to the dining experience.

The results spoke for themselves: improved customer satisfaction, higher utilization, and a successful collaboration with the UNT Dining Services team every step of the way.