GuestArticle

SEPTEMBER 2022

VOL 23 ISSUE 9 continued from Page 43

The design, completed in collaboration with SmithGroup, encourages pedestrian traffic by connecting to gardens and pathways common to universities established in the 19th and early 20th centuries. It creates an urban downtown feel for those coming from off-campus areas by pulling the building up close to the street front and overhanging the sidewalk below, providing a protective enclosure for pedestrian commuters.

At Augustana University, TSP assisted with early concept design for an outdoor classroom.

While very popular at the start of the pandemic, it remains an engaging learning environment for many aspects of a liberal arts education.

Adapting Infrastructure

Adaptive re-use of older campus buildings to meet administrative needs will continue as a trend, Kramer says, especially in upgrading historic buildings to meet today’s energy, technology, life-safety, and accessibility standards.

TSP’s renovation of East Hall at Dakota State University in Madison, South Dakota, included inserting a new stairwell in the 1901 facility. The renovations provided infrastructure for future fire suppression and mechanical systems and added thermal insulation to existing walls, while ensuring no impact to the building exterior. The renovation also includes glassy breakout and study spaces for students and faculty.

Darrell Bren, TSP’s director of engineering, specializes in the design of technology systems. As a Registered Communication Distribution Designer, Bren plans information transport systems and their related infrastructure.

As a rule, Bren says it’s important to remember that most older buildings were not designed for the technology changes witnessed today. However, current design includes tasks that IT teams perform to keep computing infrastructure up to date and aligned with user requirements, which is vital in higher education. This helps prepare for whatever is next, whether it be enhanced support for remote learners, more connected devices, security system design, and other solutions.

Architecture and engineering play significant roles on campus. This expertise helps to increase enthusiasm, awareness, and excitement on campus and in communities.