Skip to main content
Add as a preferred source on Google

University of Hartford: E. Clayton Gengras Family Student Union

  • 03/01/18
University of Hartford

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE S/L/A/M COLLABORATIVE

The S/L/A/M Collaborative (SLAM), an integrated design and construction services firm, announces completion of the E. Clayton Gengras Family Student Union at the University of Hartford in Connecticut, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of the original dedication of the facility.

Natural and gradual decay of the facility led the university to modernize the infrastructure and aesthetic of the Student Union. During the planning phase a series of interviews, student surveys, consultant site visits, and gathering of data from benchmarking surveys aided the project planning committee in the final design concept. The new building would incorporate flexibility and collaboration with a more efficient infrastructure, enhanced services, and improved aesthetics.

The project provided both expansion and improvements to gathering and recreational spaces, common areas, dining, offices, and meeting rooms. An existing, underutilized patio was transformed into a new 3,000-square-foot interior lounge and dining area named Hawk Lounge. The existing 82,260-square-foot building underwent significant renovations, including a new commuter lounge and Muslim prayer room with foot baths.

With most student services now located on the building’s main level, the concept of a “Student Services Main Street” was achieved. Consolidation of a former lounge area allowed for expansion of the Career Services Center, and new gathering spaces promote collaboration and encourage students to participate in student organizations and activities.

Exterior improvements to the original brutalist architecture include siding that aligns with the university’s branding and school colors, rendering a more spirited look. The front canopy was replaced with a contemporary look and new lighting fixtures. Hawk Terrace was designed to provide a new outdoor area for gatherings and respite seating during non-event hours.

The facility was occupied during expansion and renovation, and SLAM’s multi-phased approach minimized disruptions, maintained functionality during construction, and managed costs that enabled the inclusion of deferred maintenance work in the final project.

This article originally appeared in the College Planning & Management March 2018 issue of Spaces4Learning.

Featured

  • Missouri K–12 District Cuts Ribbons on Two New Middle Schools

    Springfield Public Schools in Springfield, Mo., recently celebrated the completion of two new middle school facilities with ribbon-cutting ceremonies, according to a district news release. The district officially opened the new Pipkin Middle School and Reed Academy on Sept. 3, both of which were funded through the $220-million Proposition S bond program approved by voters in 2023.

  • University of Mary Washington Selects Builder for New Theater, Dance Facility

    The University of Mary Washington in Fredericksburg, Va., recently announced that it has selected construction and development firm Skanska to lead a series of renovations and upgrades to fine arts facilities, according to a news release.

  • UCF Modernizes College of Hospitality Management

    The University of Central Florida in Orlando, Fla., recently completed a major renovation effort for the Rosen College of Hospitality Management, according to a news release. The project modernized 77,600 square feet worth of academic classrooms, teaching labs, and collaborative spaces to support both students and faculty.

  • Sam Houston State University Completes Athletic Stadium Renovations

    Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, Texas, recently announced the reopening of Elliott T. Bowers Stadium after an extensive renovation project, according to a news release. The university partnered with Stantec and DLR Group for the project’s design.