UB’s Hayes Hall Wins Top Honors at the 2016 Rochester AIA Design Awards

The University at Buffalo's historic Hayes Hall was honored last night at the Rochester AIA Awards gala for Best in Design. The annual event recognizes the best of the best in design from the region. The project will now moves onto the AIA New York State Chapter for next level consideration.

The restoration of Edmund B. Hayes Hall on UB's South Campus brings a beloved community icon back to life. This nationally significant landmark — home to UB’s School of Architecture and Planning —will reopen in fall of 2016, welcoming students and faculty with spaces designed to inspire. Combining a complete restoration of the 79,085 sq. ft. building’s exterior with reimagined interior spaces, the project revives an iconic landmark for UB and the region and creates a flexible, dynamic learning environment for future architects and planners. From maximizing daylighting to sourcing reclaimed wood, the project aims for LEED Gold Certification and raises the bar for sustainable building practices at UB.

The renovation is the largest-ever in the history of the circa 1866 building. The project has entered its final phase as finishing touches are made to the interior. The project team, which worked closely with UB’s facilities department for the past 6 years, included: Bergmann Associates (Architect & Engineer of Record), LeChase Construction (General Contractor) and LP Ciminelli (Construction Management). A grand reopening is planned for Sept. 23 and 24.

QUOTES:

“The renovation of Hayes Hall, a landmark building and campus and community icon, balances historic preservation and inspiring design performing to LEED Gold standards. We have created an advanced facility for higher learning in architecture and planning and are thrilled to be back in the building we’ve called home for nearly 40 years. Today we design and plan in open, day-lit spaces transformed from dark double-loaded corridors and divided floorplans. Exhibit-ready hallways and flexible studios and classrooms support open critiques and informal learning building-wide. As a welcoming gesture to the community, our most striking space – a two-story entryway atrium and gallery – will invite the public inside for events and exhibitions,” said UB School of Architecture and Planning Dean Robert Shibley, FAIA, FAICP.

“In order to establish a cohesive, functional, and aesthetically enriched new school, the design acknowledges 19th century building elements, while introducing modern design to support the vibrancy within the School of Architecture and Planning community. The interior’s minimalist character exhibits and inspires design exploration therein. Directly expressed elements including the structure and building systems, creates a dialog between 19th and 21st centuries,” commented Bob McCubbin, PE - VP Building Design for Bergmann Associates.

“Restoring a building of this age presents a number of challenges, from wear and deterioration to the hodgepodge of renovations that have been done over the years. This project required a great deal of effort and teamwork, but everyone involved can be proud of the result as it enables the University at Buffalo to achieve the best and fullest use of this iconic asset,” said Eric Colavecchio, Project Manager for LeChase Construction.

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About Bergmann

For nearly four decades, Bergmann architects, engineers and planners have been delivering results to clients across the United States and Canada. This team of more than 400 professional and technical staff spans the Northeast, Midwest and Atlantic regions. Bergmann develops connections with partners and communities to create dynamic, creative solutions that will stand the test of time, while promoting environmental and functional sustainability. Projects in the Bergmann portfolio range from major buildings and commercial developments to critical transportation infrastructure and community planning.