University of Georgia, Bolton Commons

Athens, Georgia

Firm

Bruner/Cott & Associates, Inc.

Client

University of Georgia

Area

64,000 sq.ft.

Total Cost

$24,000,000

Completion Date

08/2014

Associated firms: Smith Dalia (Architect of Record), Ricca Newmark Design (foodservice), Eberly & Assoc (civil), Koons Envirionmental Design (landscape), Uzun & Case Engineers (structural), Spencer Bristol Engineering (MEP, FP), Palacio Collaborative (cost), Whiting-Turner (CM)

Bolton Commons is a new campus center and dining commons, with 1,100 seats, 15 serveries and food-prep stations on two floors, plus a 200-seat private event space. The servery stations offer a variety of menu items (including comfort food, international cuisine, vegetarian, and allergen-free options) and feature exhibition cooking and small-batch production in order to promote freshness. Seating is varied—from high countertop tables to traditional tables, café seating, lounge areas and a popular outdoor terrace. Situated at the heart of student life on campus, Bolton Commons invites interaction among students, faculty, and alumni and encourages the exchange of ideas that is at the core of the University of Georgia’s mission. The building also includes 4,000 square feet of office and administration space.

The interiors at Bolton Commons are inspired by southern Acadian architecture. They feature local granite from Elberton, Ga., custom Douglas Fir trusses and decking, and warm interior finishes. The exterior, built of brick, granite, metal panels and glass, balances the historic with the contemporary, reflecting and complementing the grand campus surroundings.