Situated on the edge of campus at 226 E Maxwell Street, Commonwealth House provides an elegant venue for events, receptions, and retreats, complete with floor-to-ceiling windows and polished wood floors. The ground floor consists of:
- the Piano Room - a large airy space containing a comfortable seating area and a grand piano
- the Library - a bright space with a cozy conversation nook, library shelving, and a stunning stained glass window
- the Front Lobby - an open space, perfect for gathering and mingling
- the Commonwealth Gallery - a private gallery space with exhibit-friendly lighting
Entrance to the front of the property is via red-brick steps; the side entrance benefits from an accessible ramp. The front, side and upper porches are perfect for group photographs. The upper porch is accessed via a flight of stairs at the rear of the building. Behind the building, Commonwealth House boasts an outdoor seating area, perfect for events in the spring and summer. A four-cycle rack is conveniently located to the side of the building and is shared with Bingham Davis House.
The Gaines campus abuts the Memorial Coliseum (Joe E Craft) parking lot. Holders of E-permits can use this parking lot at any time; the lot is open to any UK parking permit after 3pm, and to any user after 7pm. Public, metered parking is available on Lexington Avenue, and the Student Center parking lot (open to the public) is located just a short walk away.
To reserve the ground floor of Commonwealth House for your event, please email Catherine Brereton, Gaines Center Program Coordinator: cabr223@uky.edu. You must also complete an event approval request in UK's Event Management System. Please also review the guidelines (below the gallery) prior to making your reservation.
