Dobo Hall Renovation

Wilmington, North Carolina

Firm

Moseley Architects

Client

University of North Carolina at Wilmington

Area

110,000 sq.ft.

Total Cost

$39,102,951

Completion Date

07/2020

Peter Brentlinger

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Dobo Hall at UNC Wilmington serves a vital role as the university’s primary teaching and research lab building. In 2018, Hurricane Florence damaged Dobo’s roof, resulting in extensive flooding. The design team sought to update finishes to make the 25-year-old building contemporary and welcoming to its users, while addressing the developing needs of the campus.

The primary design goal was to create an inviting entry experience to serve as the building’s focal point. The project incorporated materials that spoke to the identity of the university and its place on the coast of southern North Carolina. The lobby’s generous size accommodates seating that encourages partnership, community building, and information sharing.

As part of the modernizing effort, many labs throughout the building received a refresh. These updates include new, more resilient finishes and lighting, which offer a brighter learning environment and will serve the university’s needs for years to come. The design repurposed the labs on the second floor into conference rooms, a lounge, and a work area where graduate students can study and retreat between lab sessions and research projects.

Additional Information

Associated Firm

Balfour Beatty Construction, RMF Engineering, Atlas Engineering, Vanasse Hangen Brustlin (VHB), Affiliated Engineers, McDonough Bolyard Peck (MBP), Palacio Collaborative