​Duren Hall is a 588 bed dormitory literally built around a major heritage live oak tree.  The  $50 million  housing facility is located in the northwest corner of UT Austin, and features mostly native landscape planitngs as well as a courtyard for student relaxation and recreation.

The office of J. Robert Anderson was instrumental in developing a plan for preserving and building around the 32 inch diameter live oak tree in the private courtyard.  Efforts to save the tree included minimizing paving, locating all drainage and building infrastructure away from the tree, and supervising tree care during construction.  A lawn area for student play and relaxation around the tree was also created.