 |
 Exterior of updated Abraham Shapiro Academic building. Abraham Shapiro Academic Building
Adapting
a former archival library into modern office space has its challenges.
The building being renovated for this project is
the former home of the American Jewish Historical Society. It is
located on the University’s campus, but was not an official
part of the University until they purchased it in the summer of
2002. The building is an 18,000 sf, 3-story concrete building dating
from 1967 with minimal glazing and prominent structural components.
The new program added a new vertical circulation addition (stair
tower, elevator, entrance(s)) and some new fenestration. During
its use as an archival library the building had minimal ventilation,
air conditioning and electrical loads. Syska worked closely with
the architect to integrate the new air conditioning ductwork required
into the building without taking up valuable program space. Syska
also brought new engineering services into the building to better
integrate it into the campus’ infrastructure.
Usdan Student Center
Syska
Hennessy Group is currently preparing an infrastructure upgrade
plan for this 1970 vintage, 125,000 sf Student Center.
Syska is working closely with the University, the Architect and
the local Building Officials to plan out the upgrades required
by both code updates and the building’s new program requirements.
Compromises have been made by all parties to get the first renovations
within available budget. Work is currently underway for Phase 1
of the renovations, which will create a new “One-Stop” Center
for student services.
|
|
