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Southern Oregon University
Ashland, OR

Owner:
Southern Oregon University

Architect:
SRG Partnership Inc.

Contractor:
Emerick Construction

Image Credits:
Lara Swimmer Photography

Designed the expansion of and renovation to the existing library. Totaling 65,000-sf, the three-story addition includes an entry rotunda constructed of an exposed steel structural frame that provides a new identity for the building. In order to meet the required fire rating, the design used state-of-the-art methodologies to analyze and design steel pipe columns filled with concrete, rather than traditional intumescent paint, which resulted in approximately $100,000 savings to the project. The resulting atrium space features the exposed structure as a significant element of the design. Close collaboration and creative work sessions with the design team ensured the complete coordination of the design. The renovation of the existing library, including a seismic strengthening using FEMA 356 Guidelines, saved the University approximately $350,000 in construction costs. The costs savings were a direct benefit to the owner as they were able to preserve program in a highly volatile construction market that had experienced yearly cost escalation of approximately 15%. The project utilized sustainable design concepts including re-use of the existing library, daylighting, and energy efficiency aided by the thermal mass of the floor structure. While with another firm, Chris Thompson served as Principal in Charge and John McDonald served as Project Engineer.