Photo courtesy of: Ohio UniversityOHIO students study in the newly renovated McCracken Hall. The building’s expansion project was selected as a recipient of the "Outstanding Design for Renovation/Modernization” award by "American School & University" magazine.
Ohio University’s McCracken Hall building expansion project has been selected as a recipient of the "Outstanding Design for Renovation/Modernization” award by American School & University magazine.
McCracken Hall, home of The Gladys W. and David H. Patton College of Education, will appear in the publication's November 2017 “Architectural Portfolio” issue, which is touted as “the premier showcase celebrating the best in education design.” OHIO’s recently completed expansion project is one of only six university design/construction projects in the nation to be recognized with this distinction.
“The Patton College of Education expansion project is the result of numerous campus collaborations and partnerships, and our entire team is extremely proud to be recognized by this national publication,” said Lynnette Clouse, director of interiors and renovation at Ohio University.
Each year, a jury of architects and education administrators award “citations" and other “outstanding design” recognitions that are published within American School & University's annual "Architectural Portfolio;" the issue provides numerous education and business projects both industry acclaim and national exposure.
"American School & University’s 'Architectural Portfolio' showcases real-world examples of facilities that excel in their goal of providing innovative, exceptional environments for learning," said Joe Agron, Editor-in-Chief and Associate Publisher for American School & University.
The $32.8 million renovation was McCracken’s first one since it was built in 1959. The project increased the building’s square feet from 66,000 to 100,500 by converting the fourth-floor attic to useable space and adding a four-story addition.
The project was made possible in part through OHIO alumna Violet L. Patton's generous financial commitment to the college in 2010. Construction began in April 2015 and was completed in December 2016.
Dr. Renée A. Middleton, Dean of The Patton College of Education, said that the design of the building mirrors the educational experiences and learning opportunities that take place each day within the College.
“Champlin Architecture and Elford Construction did an exceptional job making our vision a reality. Our intention was to create a sustainable design that is accessible for all, with teaching and learning at the forefront. The building was designed to showcase the experiential learning occurring within its walls: A view into the Demonstration Kitchen, the Experimental Lab, project rooms and our Doxsee Collection,” Dr. Middleton said. “Students’ preparation and learning may begin here, but it continues with the impact they are making, and will continue to make in our schools, community and business enterprises.”
Clouse also lauded the numerous sustainable highlights exuded within the building and noted that 90 percent of the materials from the previous structure were utilized during the structure’s expansion, and a large majority of any additional materials consisted of renewable or recycled content. Additionally, the renovated space showcases an innovative way to capture storm water runoff, improve water efficiency and maximize energy performance.
"McCracken Hall is fully accessible, has the latest classroom technology, and it is a very green building," Clouse added. "It has already achieved a LEED Silver certification, a globally recognized symbol of sustainability achievement. We are tracking a LEED Gold certification based on final U.S. Green Building Council review.”
Dean Middleton remarked during the building's ribbon-cutting ceremony earlier this year that the completed renovation will enable the Patton College to continue to be a change agent for the greater good.
"I am proud of our past, but I could not be more excited for our future,” she said.