James and Gay Hardymon Center for Student Success

In August of 2018, our renovation to the entire third floor of the historic F. Paul Anderson Tower opened. In compliance with the grant requirements, the project was completed within a condensed schedule providing student access by the start of the fall semester.

The James and Gay Hardymon Center for Student Success in the College of Engineering offers students a new communal learning space and “serves as the living room for the College of Engineering.” A hub for engineering students, the newly renovated floor offers access to student records, academic advising, group and private study areas, and tutoring in the Elbert C. Ray eStudio.

Open concept and flexible spaces were a high priority for the user groups.  Using REVIT, STW was able to model all the new ductwork and new equipment above the ceiling. This careful coordination with our architect protected the maximum floor-to-ceiling height in the space.

Additional mechanical planning provided a seamless transition during construction in a partially occupied building. The third floor was served by a central air handling unit located in a mechanical penthouse. This unit also provided service to three other floors. STW tied in our new equipment on the 3rd floor to this unit while maintaining service to the other spaces.

Electrical system design focused on providing students with easy access to modern technology. Under-carpet wiring provided flexibility in work areas allowing furniture and room use to change regularly. A robust wireless network was incorporated for easy WIFI connectively. A/V technology included wall-mounted monitors for group work sessions and digital projects, soundproof rooms for mock presentations, and video cameras for remote interviews.