UK James and Gay Hardymon Center for Student Success

Flexible Learning Spaces and Smart Systems Transform Engineering Student Life
Lexington, Kentucky
University of Kentucky
9,600 SF

The James and Gay Hardymon Center for Student Success in the College of Engineering offers students a new communal learning space and “serves as the living room for the College of Engineering.” A hub for engineering students, the newly renovated floor offers access to student records, academic advising, group and private study areas, and tutoring in the Elbert C. Ray eStudio. 

Open concept and flexible spaces were a high priority for the user groups. Using REVIT, STW was able to model all the new ductwork and new equipment above the ceiling. This careful coordination with our architect protected the maximum floor-to-ceiling height in the space. 

Additional mechanical planning provided a seamless transition during construction in a partially occupied building. The third floor was served by a central air handling unit located in a mechanical penthouse. This unit also served three other floors. STW tied in the new equipment on the 3rd floor to this unit while maintaining service to the other spaces. 

Electrical system design focused on providing students with easy access to modern technology. Under-carpet wiring provided flexibility in work areas, allowing furniture and room use to change regularly. A robust wireless network was incorporated for easy Wi-Fi connectivity. A/V technology included wall-mounted monitors for group work sessions and digital projects, soundproof rooms for mock presentations, and video cameras for remote interviews.