Wearing Many Hats
Fitchburg State University MSCBA House Doctor
Fitchburg, MA
Preserving History
The 130-year-old Fay Club is a beautifully articulated work of significant architecture and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It features original brick and stone, doors and windows, mahogany paneling, coffered wood ceilings, and sculptural wood features. The building was in reasonable condition considering its age; however, at the time of our study, it needed repair, restoration, and upgrade. Primary uses were expected to be culinary and event planning instruction, secondarily as a rental venue for special events and community functions in partnership with area organizations.
Improving the Environment
Fitchburg State University realized the need to add air conditioning capacity on the south end of the main campus while replacing split DX systems. This project involved significant site work, infrastructure, and renovations to the basement of Thompson Hall to support (2) 200-ton air-cooled chillers and cooling loop. Initiating FSU’s masterplan for four buildings (Miller, Edgerly, Thompson and Percival), the first chiller was installed in the summer of 2017; the second chiller will be added as building renovation projects are completed and as load demands warrant.
Providing New Purpose
This project was an exterior and interior gut renovation of 132 Highland Avenue, a 6,000-sf house (turned apartment building). Originally constructed in 1913, this building is now a 4-unit apartment building for University faculty/staff. The building had been abandoned for over a year and neglected for many years. There was no insulation in the existing exterior walls. Significant structural reinforcing needed to be done during construction. All exterior detailing, including corbels, cornice, corner boards, window trim, and window profiles were replicated to match the existing as close as possible.
