Examines built-up, modified bitumen, and hybrid combinations of the two roofing systems and offers advise on how to assure high- quality performance and durability when using them. Included is a glossary of commercial roofing terms and asphalt roofing resources to aid in making decisions on roofing and systems product selection. (GR)

Describes how the University of Cincinnati, with the help of architects and a master planner, improved the architectural quality of its buildings, left more open space on campus, created pedestrian connections between campuses, and changed parking lots into green areas. Considerations on the costs associated with major architectural improvements…

Examines Southwest Missouri State University's student union building that was designed and renovated to be inviting, accessible, and easier to identify. Before and after photos are included. (GR)

Discusses transforming outmoded educational facilities to meet the new and diverse educational needs of students. Examines how to assess an old facility's potential for new uses and discusses creation of added-value benefits to an older building through careful renovation and study of its cost benefits. (GR)

Discusses enhancing a college's competitive position by offering technological capabilities to its students, including the planning process and wiring installation issues to be considered. Highlights two examples concerning building the wiring infrastructure to support multipurpose, technology-rich learning environments. (GR)

Examines the piece-by-piece approach to school re-roofing that can help alleviate both maintenance and budget concerns. Addresses the question of whether an entire new roof is required and discusses funding and why a single-ply roof is a good choice for partial replacement. (GR)

Presents the steps needed to successfully design a lighting retrofit of school classrooms. Tips cover budgeting, technology, financing, contractor selection, assessing area function, and choosing a light source. (GR)

Illustrates a large campus renovation and expansion project at the University of Pennsylvania, whose quadrangle preserves the school's historical buildings and student union as the center of student activity. Includes nine photographs, a site plan, and project data. (GR)

Discusses ways a new athletic training facility can do more than just improve school sports programs. Explores the new facility's ability to increase functional and operational efficiencies, improve student academic performance, and recruit athletes. (GR)

Explores South Carolina's Erskine College's planning and decision making process to renovate all seven of its dormitories over three summers. Discusses how the organization built a strong relationship with the contractor, successfully utilized outside architectural and consulting services, applied facilities management techniques in the process,…

Describes a capital funding model that helps assess facility renewal needs in a way that minimizes resources while maximizing results. The article explains the sub-components of a continuous improvement capital funding model, including budgeting processes for finish renewal, building performance renewal, and critical outcome. (GR)

Discusses how partnerships between municipalities and school recreation departments are providing better facilities and programs for the entire community. Some successful collaborations are examined. (GR)

Case studies demonstrating energy-efficient renovation of educational buildings collected by the International Energy Agency (IEA) provide information on retrofit technologies, energy-saving approaches and ventilation strategies. Some general findings are presented here along with one case study, Egebjerg School in Denmark, which shows how natural…

Lots of things have changed since the baby boomers began overfilling postwar schoolhouses in the 1950s. The sparkling new buildings erected across the United States to handle the population surge have lost their luster, and in many cases, their functionality. This is not new information; in a 1995 General Accounting Office report, nearly half of…

When education providers confront obstacles such as shrinking budgets and swelling enrollments, a multi-million-dollar new facility or major additions probably are not feasible. Converting vacant and underused buildings into school facilities enables administrators to acquire additional space quickly and cheaply. In this article, the authors…