Describes the renovation and expansion of Palmer Hall, New Jersey-based Princeton University's original physics laboratory, to house the Frist Campus Center. Includes before and after photographs. (EV)

Describes the restoration to original form of a modern, semicircular dormitory lounge at Vassar College, which was designed by Eero Saarinen in the 1950s. (EV)

Presents K-12 and college libraries/media centers considered outstanding in a competition, which judged the most outstanding learning environments at educational institutions nationwide. Jurors spent two days reviewing projects, highlighting concepts and ideas that made them exceptional. For each citation, the article offers information on the…

Offers advice for student union professionals facing preliminary budgeting for renovation or construction projects, including relevant industry terminology. (EV)

Describes issues involved when converting traditional classrooms into smart classrooms that include appropriate educational technology. Highlights include faculty training in advance; flexibility; design considerations; technical support; and an example based on experiences at Virginia Commonwealth University. (LRW)

A roof system's warranty is an essential detail of which every purchaser should be aware. Addresses different types of warranties offered, what a manufacture warranty covers, and important features all warranties should include. Additionally, benefits of warranties, five common loopholes in warranties, and five guidelines for a purchaser to follow…

School renovation projects, such as those undertaken by two Boston elementary schools, allow principals opportunity to influence quality and usefulness of renovated space as well as values expressed by school environment. Despite tight budgetary constraints, architects designed a series of vivid graphic images throughout Patrick O'Hearn School to…

Examines the factors for properly selecting the ideal roofing system for school buildings. Discusses considerations involving roof insulation and inspections, warranties, and vapor retarders. (GR)

Explains how to choose classroom furniture that complements the teaching methodology and fits classroom configurations and needs. Highlights purchasing considerations beyond quality, price, and service. These include standardizing the products being purchased, fabric selection, and aesthetic appearance. (GR)

Discusses the prevention of high roof repair costs by implementing a roof-maintenance program as part of a total building-condition assessment. Assessing roof conditions and establishing a critical priorities list are examined as are the five key elements to properly managing a roof system. Final comments address ways to maintain the…

Offers tips on developing a clear and detailed plan that can keep a school rehabilitation project on time and within budget. Developing proper communication between stakeholders, knowing the regulations, probing for facts about deterioration, and being persistent and demanding in monitoring the construction project are stressed. (GR)

Discusses how one high school transformed its restrooms into cleaner and more vandal-resistant environments by automating them. Solutions discussed include installing perforated stainless steel panel ceilings, using epoxy-based paint for walls, selecting china commode fixtures instead of stainless steel, installing electronic faucets and sensors,…

Discusses the decision-making process facility directors can use when deciding between building renovation versus constructing new ones. Considerations include building renovation costs versus building life expectancy and changes in school policy and campus evolution. Concluding comments address the desire to maintain the campus architectural…

Discusses how human influence can enhance the learning environment in the college classroom and overall learning community. It explains that all persons connected to an educational institution think of themselves as members of the learning community and describes the roles each group can play in creating and maintaining high standards in their…

Presents three college residence-hall projects that reveal the diversity in planning and design ideas available for successfully meeting student needs. Discusses use of unique interior designs and locations, multi-service features, and the use of prefabricated materials to cut building costs are discussed. (GR)