Delaware State University

While the original plan for this campus project was to renovate an existing one-story structure, it was determined that demolition and new construction were the most financially sound and sustainable options. Having recently completed designs for the Wellness and Recreation Center, the Strength and Conditioning facility, and a new pool addition, Kohler Ronan was pleased to join the design team and once again offer its engineering services to improve the DSU campus for students and the community.

The student center’s first floor consists of a dining facility with grill-type menu, campus bookstore, mail services, copy center, spacious lounge area with stage, and flexible multi-purpose meeting spaces. The second floor features a 7,656 sq. ft. hall/ballroom, game room and additional open and closed lounge areas. Office space for student government, career services, The Hornet student paper and other student activities fill in the third floor.

In collaboration with the design team, Kohler Ronan worked to provide designs that would meet the University’s goals for sustainability. Features include a natural ventilation system, large overhangs to reduce heat consumption, and lightly-colored roofs to reduce solar gain. The facility utilized regional, natural, and salvaged materials during construction, and implemented a waste management program during demolition.

Photo credit: © Tom Kessler Photography