EKU selected Omni Architects to design the renovation of Keene Hall, Palmer Hall, and McGregor Hall, all located on the Richmond, Kentucky, campus. The buildings are experiencing inadequate and failing MEP systems and outdated interiors that were not competitive in the recruitment of undergraduate students. The stated goal for the renovation was to improve comfort, appearance, accessibility, and safety, extend the life of the buildings and adopt energy-efficient and sustainable practices.
Following an initial discovery phase which included an extensive facility assessment, a review of the existing campus housing inventory, and long-term planning discussions with key stakeholders, Sullivan Hall and Burnham Hall were added to the list of facilities included in the project.
After expanding the facilities assessment to include Burnham and Sullivan, Omni Architects generated a list of possible scenarios to meet the aforementioned goals of the project and target the ideal bed count for EKU Housing. These scenarios were presented to key stakeholders and have informed the project direction. The renovation efforts are now focused on Keene Hall, Palmer Hall, Sullivan Hall and Burnham Hall. Omni Architects is currently working to organize a project phasing approach, update the cost modeling, and quickly moving into the Schematic Design phase to fast-track the first phase of the renovation sequence.