“We are particularly excited about these projects because they are fast-paced, value driven projects for two customers with whom we have longstanding relationships and genuinely enjoy working with,” said Rod Shaffert, PE, LEED AP, Vice President of Cutler’s Scholastic Division.

After completing three similar residence hall renovation projects for Mount Holyoke College in 2005 and 2006, Cutler was asked to return to create a similar design-build solution for Safford Hall. The updates will transform underutilized former dining hall space into student lounge areas and a “Golden Pear” kitchen area. At the same time, the team will address accessibility issues, provide infrastructure updates, and restore the original grandeur of the 1897-built structure. 

“Challenges often arise when working in century-old buildings such as Safford Hall due to unknown conditions. However, in this project, we also identified some hidden gems during demolition that created architectural opportunities for the project,” explains Michael Bass, AIA, LEED AP, Vice President for Cutler Design. “For example, after removing the plaster in the basement, we discovered some really nice brick walls and arches. We plan to refinish the surfaces of these original materials to enhance the interior design of the residential life offices planned for that space.”

After an intense planning, design, and approval process, construction is currently underway on the $4.5 million project and completion is expected in time for the spring semester.

A 60-bed residence hall is under construction at Endicott College, Cutler’s sixth project on campus. Hawthorne Hall will be a themed housing complex designed to offer students a healthy living community. Each suite will house of 8, 10, or 12 students and will have a common living space with shared private bathrooms.

Construction on the $3.5 million project began in March and will be completed by the end of August. To meet the tight construction schedule, while producing a quality, durable facility, the design-build team chose the pre-panelized, light-gauge steel Infinity Structural System to provide the framework for the building. 

“The Infinity System is ideal for multi-story residential projects, such as student housing,” explains Design Project Manager Shawn McGuinness, AIA, LEED AP. “The upfront cost savings are typically lower than traditional steel framing. Construction schedules are generally shorter because the factory-made materials are quickly delivered to the site followed by a fast installation.” Ms. McGuinness further elaborates that “other advantages that made the Infinity System particularly attractive to Endicott College include energy efficiency, noise reduction, lower long-term maintenance costs, and long-term durability.”