Towson University, Student Union

Henry Adams provided the mechanical and electrical engineering services for the $103M, 256,000 SF renovation, and expansion of the Union. The goal of the project was to achieve the University’s vision of developing a student-focused facility. The other objective was to address ongoing maintenance concerns in the existing building. The University Union is the hub of student social life on the Towson campus.

The overall project included a phased renovation of 171,000 SF (completed in 2022) and an addition of 85,000 SF (completed August 2021).

The Phase I Expansion constructed a new three-level addition on the north side of the existing building and was completed in August 2021. This section houses the new food market and new entrance along Tiger Way. The building remained occupied throughout the academic year during the phased construction. The Phase II building renovation included space alterations and changes to accommodate new campus services, complete renovation of the food services, and a full building MEP/FP systems upgrade including new electrical services.

Highlights include a 300-seat auditorium and movie theatre, seven food venues plus a new grab-and-go Aramark food market, a 15,000 SF ballroom, a relocated and expanded Career Center; and double the current student activity space, including new and expanded meeting areas.

The mechanical scope upgraded the HVAC and associated building controls. Design services included life cycle cost analysis and energy modeling. The electrical scope involved building power distribution, smart LED lighting systems with daylight harvesting, a new emergency generator, short circuit and coordination study, a lightning protection system, and coordination with existing to remain rooftop solar PV. The working drawings were prepared using Revit modeling to Level 300. The project was designed to achieve LEED Gold.