Tuesday, August 08, 2006
Wright Administration Building undergoing major renovations
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If you’ve tried to enter the Wright Administration Building recently, you probably thought you weren’t supposed to be where you were. It’s impossible to walk into the building from any entrance without stumbling upon a construction zone. “There’s a lot happening,” said Gary Burgdorf, construction administrator for the Physical Plant. “We’re upgrading the look, functionality, and safety of the building.” The work, by Deig Brothers Construction, includes three different projects: The patio project, corridor project, and forums project. Patio project Two outdoor areas on the south side of the Wright Administration Building – one just south of the corridors that lead to the Science Center, and one south of the Canteen - are being completely recreated and made more congenial for reflectivity and sociability with new curved pathways, seating areas, and lighting. “Curved paths invite people to walk on them. If it meanders a little, it might encourage students to walk a little slowly and think deeper thoughts,” Burgdorf said. The pathways were constructed of pervious concrete, on which brick or concrete pavers were placed. Sand between the pavers allows water to pass through to the pervious concrete and eliminates run-off. Corridor project All of the corridors on the lower and first levels of the Wright will have a new look, but the changes are far more than cosmetic. The unused wiring has been stripped; heating and air ductwork, electric and communications wiring rerouted; and unsafe penetrations between areas blocked to bring the building up to standards. Perhaps the most noticeable feature of the corridors project is the hallway between the Forums, in which a curved wall seems to wave from one end to the next. “We’re trying to add some level of interest in what would otherwise be a stark hallway,” Burgdorf said. “It will be much more modern and I think more inviting.” New carpet will be installed throughout all of the corridors, and has already been installed in the Redwood Lounge. The glass walls in the lounge and in the corridor below will be replaced with energy efficient, low-e window glass in a more contemporary design. On the lower level, the Canteen will be completely renovated, with new walls, doors, ceiling, flooring, and windows looking out on one of the new patio areas. Forum project All three forums are being completely renovated with new carpet, furniture, lighting, and audio/visual equipment. All work will be complete in September. “Deig Brothers has worked very hard through some trying conditions with the heat and humidity to keep the project on pace,” Burgdorf said. |
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