Originally called the Council Room, the Main Lounge has always served as a quiet place on campus for students to relax, read newspapers, or simple enjoy a cup of coffee away from the activity of the Union's first floor. With its marble columns, high ceilings and spacious windows, the Main Lounge is one of the most beautiful spaces in the Union.

The Lounge was refurbished on two previous occasions - in 1947 as part of a major building renovation and in the early 1970's. As a result of those alterations, the decorative plaster ceilings had been concealed, the terrazzo floor had been carpeted and linear fluorescent lighting was installed. Strang's renovation restored the space to its original splendor and installed air conditioning. The project also restored historic elements and added lighting. The room was repainted in historically appropriate colors and the room's decorative frieze was restenciled.