The project included the complete renovation of an existing research lab space, in addition to creating two chemical storage rooms. The lab and storage rooms were designed as control areas to allow the school to increase it’s capacity for chemical storage on campus.
Following piecemeal growth of the UMass Pass Office over a number of years, the intent of this project was to synthesize and aesthetically revamp this vital center of campus business.
Original services began with a proposal to replace the soffit panels around the exterior of the gymnasium. The scope of the soffit replacement project was later expanded to include new glazing at the primary (East) entrance of the gymnasium. New storefront-type curtain walls were installed at the lobby entrance with three sets of accessible double doors on the ground floor.
This project consisted of the construction of the shaft and control room for a new machine-room-less elevator, along with related interior renovations at elevator vestibules.
On a campus with firm discipline and little privacy, the Fantail aims to provide a comfortable environment for socializing. In keeping with the tugboats and ships these students operate, precast panels bend in an arc similar to a bridge deck and look towards the spectacular Cape Cod Canal Approach. A monitor sits atop and floods the central space with light. Exterior materials are used in keeping with the context of the campus: brick, concrete and copper. On the interior high mounted pipe raised wood floor doubles as a private lounge area and stage, exposed ceilings incorporate theatrical lighting over a dance floor and custom booths allow informal gatherings.
