Reitz Union Expansion and Renovation
The renovation and expansion of the Reitz Student Union, built in 1967, expanded facilities, services, and programs supporting the University of Florida’s diverse campus community, increased energy efficiency, reduced operational costs, and greatly enhanced comfort and functionality. Walker Architects, in partnership with CannonDesign, provided 20% of design services and 80% of construction administration services.
The renovation and expansion of the Reitz Student Union, built in 1967, expanded facilities, services, and programs supporting the University of Florida’s diverse campus community, increased energy efficiency, reduced operational costs, and greatly enhanced comfort and functionality.
Phase 1, the 100,000 sf addition, included entry and food court renovations, meeting rooms, lounges, dance rehearsal studios, a ballroom, and offices and support space for the Center for Leadership and Service, the Department of Student Activities and Involvement, the Office of Multicultural and Diversity Affairs, GatorWell Health Promotion Services, and student clubs and organizations.
Phase 2, the 50,000 sf renovation, included new energy-efficient windows and doors, restoration of exterior surfaces and structural components, replacement and upgrades of electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems, and upgrades to interior finishes and lighting.
Careful phasing ensured that the Reitz continued to serve UF’s 50,000 students throughout construction.
Project Owner
University of Florida
Location
Gainesville, FL
Completion Date
January 2016
Project Size
207,498 SF (89,250 sf renovation,
118,248 sf addition)
Cost
$70M
Contractor
Skanska
Delivery Method
Construction Management
Partners
Architectural: CannonDesign; MEPF: KJWW Engineering (now IMEG Corp.); Structural: Structural Engineers Group; Civil: Causseaux, Hewett, & Walpole; Commissioning: Affiliated Engineers SE
LEED Certification
Gold
Awards
ENR Southeast: Best Higher Education / Research Project
Design
COMMUNITY
pLaces
Careful phasing ensured that the Reitz continued to serve UF’s 50,000 students throughout construction.
Design
PURPOSEFUL
Spaces
Phase 1, the 118,248 sf addition, includes entry and food court renovations, meeting rooms, lounges, dance rehearsal studios, a ballroom, and offices and support space for the Center for Leadership and Service, the Department of Student Activities and Involvement, the Office of Multicultural and Diversity Affairs, GatorWell Health Promotion Services, and student clubs and organizations.
Phase 2, the 89,250 sf renovation, includes new energy-efficient windows and doors, restoration of exterior surfaces and structural components, replacement and upgrades of electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems, and upgrades to interior finishes and lighting.
Selected Works
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