Sororities invest millions in luxury renovations driven by social media influence

Christina Harris lived in the Kappa Alpha Theta sorority house at the University of Oklahoma for three years. Now, she’s returning as an interior designer tasked with a $14 million makeover.

Harris recalls that from 2007 to 2009, the sorority house had one large lounge space shared by 86 girls and a study area accommodating about 15 people. The new renovation will include a 10,000-square-foot addition, providing ample space for the entire chapter.

It will also feature “new bathrooms complete with dry bars, for an added touch of luxury and convenience,” Harris adds.

Kappa Alpha Theta’s renovation reflects a growing trend among American sorority houses investing in multimillion-dollar makeovers. These upgrades often include high-end coffee stations, luxurious lounges, and opulent libraries.

“Potential new members often get their first impression of a sorority through social media,” says Harris, associate principal of GH2 Architects in Tulsa, OK. “It’s now easier than ever to see how a Greek house in Oklahoma compares to one on the East or West Coast.”

Liz Toombs, owner of an interior design firm specializing in sorority houses, notes that social media significantly influences these makeovers.

“Beautiful spaces get shared and liked, which creates a bit of friendly competition among houses to have the most Instagram-worthy interiors,” she says.

Top-tier sororities across the country are increasingly funding these extravagant renovations themselves rather than relying on universities. Such investments are seen as crucial for recruiting during rush week. Professionals specializing in sorority house design face pressure to stay ahead of trends.

“I keep an eye on Rushtok and dormtok, as well as new design industry trends, to give me fresh ideas,” explains Toombs. She also requests “inspiration photos” from members to create visually stunning yet functional spaces.

Harris indicates that renovations on her former sorority house have just begun with hopes for completion by next year. Her focus is on creating beautiful spaces reflecting the house’s unique character and culture.

“Regardless of social media impressions, we have been truly focused on creating a warm and inviting environment for those girls who are lucky enough to call Kappa Alpha Theta home,” says Harris.

The trend extends beyond Kappa Alpha Theta. The Tri Delta house at the University of Arkansas underwent significant expansion and renovation in 2018. Architect Jim Yeary from Yeary Lindsey Architects reports that the project increased the house size to approximately 43,000 square feet at a cost of about $14 million.

The original chapter house was retained but renovated inside and out while two former additions were removed and three new wings added. The renovation emphasized architectural detailing throughout with enhanced bathrooms, finishes, and furniture enlivening common areas like a multipurpose room seating over 300 people.

Similarly, Delta Zeta at the University of Alabama boasts luxurious living conditions following its own extensive renovation. Sorority recruitment at Alabama is highly competitive; TikTok videos under #BamaRush receive millions of views annually.

Architect Les Cole from Cole & Cole Architects designed Delta Zeta's $17 million megamansion completed in 2017 after razing the old structure. It features residential-scale designs akin to custom homes with fireplaces, bookshelves, paneled walls, decorative ceilings, specialty fixtures and finishes aimed at creating a homely environment where members can connect between classes.

The Delta Zeta house includes numerous amenities such as a 250-seat dining hall serving up to 800 meals daily; multiple living areas; bedrooms for 66 members; seven study rooms; and even a presentation practice room equipped with videoconferencing tools.