Lamar University, Family & Consumer Sciences Building Renovation

Beaumont, Texas

Firm

Huitt-Zollars, Inc.

Client

Lamar University, Physical Plant Department

Area

16,000 sq.ft.

Total Cost

$1,650,750

Completion Date

03/2000

The Lamar University Family & Consumer Sciences Building, formally known as the Home Economics Building, was built in 1950. After an addition in 1968, it remained unchanged until a new design was initiated in 1998. Many of the existing spaces were small, odd-shaped and little-used, while others were overused.
The university wanted to update the facility to meet student and staff needs—a curriculum changing from a domestic nature to a commercial one. An unused patio and other outdoor areas were replaced with additional faculty offices and a naturally lighted student-activities area. A new building entry was developed adjacent to an existing library plaza. Faculty offices were placed at the north end of the building so that each space faced an existing quadrangle. A teaching commercial kitchen was renovated with stainless-steel fixtures, projection areas and food- preparation areas. A computer laboratory was installed for design classes. A “wing” roof/ceiling structure, with clerestory windows, was constructed over the student-activities area to bring in diffused natural daylight.
The entire building was equipped with new mechanical, electrical, plumbing and fire-protection systems.