Linwood House has been a steadfast presence on Valparaiso University’s campus for more than six decades, a symbol of the University’s rich history and architectural legacy. Now, thanks to an exciting new partnership with Indiana Landmarks, this mid-century modern gem will not only be preserved but will also take on new life as a hub for historic preservation and community engagement.
Under this agreement, Indiana Landmarks will rehabilitate and lease Linwood House, using it as a regional headquarters to support preservation initiatives in Lake, Porter, Newton, Jasper, and White counties. Additionally, the space will serve as a venue for public programs, educational workshops, and collaborative projects.
“This move continues Indiana Landmarks’ practice of investing in important community landmarks for use as regional offices around the state,” said Indiana Landmarks President Marsh Davis. “The partnership with Valparaiso University presents an exciting opportunity to highlight an architecturally significant property and expand our outreach by hosting public programs in the space.”
Designed in 1959 by architect Charles E. Stade, Linwood House originally served as the residence of Valparaiso University President Dr. O.P. Kretzmann. Its Prairie-style and Modernist influences — seen in its stained glass, bands of large windows, horizontal sheathing, and distinctive brickwork — reflect the same design philosophy that shaped the University’s iconic Chapel of the Resurrection. Over the years, the house evolved into office space, but its architectural significance remained undeniable. When the University vacated the building in 2024, faculty members recognized an opportunity to preserve the historic structure and reached out to Indiana Landmarks to explore possibilities for its revitalization.
By welcoming Indiana Landmarks’ northwest field office to campus, Valparaiso University is reinforcing its commitment to safeguarding architectural heritage while creating meaningful opportunities for students, faculty, and the broader community to engage in preservation efforts.
“In leasing Linwood House to Indiana Landmarks, Valparaiso University has confidence that the significant architectural features of this campus landmark will be protected and its legacy of use as a community gathering space will continue,” said Mark Volpatti, Ed.D., CPA, senior vice president for finance and administration at Valparaiso University.
Since its establishment in 2004, the Indiana Landmarks Northwest Field Office has operated out of historic buildings in Hammond, Hobart, and Gary. The move to Valparaiso comes as Indiana Landmarks finalizes the sale of its former office in Gary’s historic Illinois Bell Telephone Building, a space that has played a vital role in supporting local arts and cultural initiatives. The Nelson Algren Museum, which has long occupied the lower level of the building, will continue and expand its mission of preserving the legacy of the renowned writer, Nelson Algren, while working alongside the Miller Beach Arts and Creative District, Inc., an organization dedicated to leveraging the arts to revitalize Gary’s Lake Street corridor. The sale of the building has helped make possible this new chapter for Indiana Landmarks in Valparaiso, ensuring that both properties continue to serve the public in meaningful ways.
Through this partnership, Valparaiso University and Indiana Landmarks are taking a vital step in ensuring that Northwest Indiana’s architectural treasures continue to be celebrated and protected for years to come. For more information, please contact mark.volpatti@valpo.edu.