Lean, Green Patterson Hall Delivered at University of South Carolina
Shiel Sexton worked with the University of South Carolina on the renovation and expansion of Patterson Hall on the school’s campus in Columbia, SC. Patterson Hall had been housing over 600 students since the 1960s and closed in May 2010 for extensive renovations and additions.
As the General Contractor, SSC modernized the 186,990-square-foot, 10-story dorm interior to feature suite-style units along with all new furnishings and an updated lobby. The revitalized dorm also includes a cyber lounge, a smart classroom and community kitchens.
Important structural elements were added such as seismic reinforcement, sprinklers for fire suppression and an upgrade to the fire detection systems. Four cast-in-place tower appendages, attached to the existing frame, brace the building against the threat of earthquakes as well as containing the relocated 3-bay elevator shaft, stairwells and additional common/study areas. The extensive interior demolition portion of the project also included abatement of all existing asbestos and lead containing materials.
Built with the goal of LEED certification in mind, clean/green aspects of Patterson include a first-floor green terrace and green space between Patterson and Sims Hall. Additional features include: water-conserving dual-flush toilets, low-flow faucets and shower heads, a laundry room with 32 high-efficiency washers and dryers, natural daylight areas, an indoor bicycle storage and shower station, an outside covered bicycle storage, recycled materials in interior finishes, driveways that reduce storm water runoff and energy recovery units that reduce humidity and energy use while improving indoor air quality (USC).
According to the University, the new Patterson Hall is projected to use 16% less energy and have 40% better water efficiency than in its previous state. Additionally, the construction team was able to recycle or retain 95% of the building throughout the construction process (USC).
SSC also relocated office space to the lower level for the University’s Housing Department. The floor contains approximately 18,300 square feet of office space. It houses offices, two conference rooms, two break rooms, two reception and waiting areas, open marketing space, and administration areas. The floor also contains a cashier office, information technology server space and two public restrooms. There are also approximately 9,550 square feet of mechanical and storage areas.
The SSC team delivered Patterson Hall in 15 months, on-time and under budget.
