This project was an approximately $50 million renovation to the main student center at the University. The renovation of the 80,000 sq ft student center included a complete overhaul of most of the major mechanical, electrical, plumbing, fire protection, and elevator systems throughout the building. Two large mechanical rooms were created, housing all new systems to serve the building, the electrical distribution system was completely overhauled, including a new rooftop emergency generator, and four new elevators were inserted into the building. Project included replacement of the building’s aging HVAC systems and installation of new chilled water and steam services including centralized field-erected VAV air handling units and air distribution systems. Additionally, a complete replacement of hydronic heating, chilled water, steam and condensate systems and installation of new exterior snowmelting systems and kitchen hood welded steel grease ductwork exhaust systems occurred during this time.

The project also included a modernization and replacement of the lighting systems in approximately 50% of the building, including color changing lighting at the central atrium’s “lantern,” a building feature that’s visible from across the heart of campus. The University uses this feature to recognize important campus events or special days (e.g. a basketball game day, or breast cancer awareness day).

The lighting for this project, designed by Peterson Guadagnolo Consulting Engineers was recognized by the international Illumination Engineering Society’s Illumination Awards in 2022 with an Award of Merit.