Overview

Kutztown University’s DeFrancesco building, located on its North Campus, is now the designated home for the school’s College of Business. This state-of-the-art facility houses all of the University’s business degree programs under one roof, serving 1,700 students and supported by 60 full- and part-time faculty.

Comprising of two linked buildings with a total of over 60,000 gross square feet, DeFrancesco was identified for significant upgrades following a previously performed feasibility study. This study highlighted deficiencies in the building’s envelope, systems, and site access. Additional needed upgrades were noted for conference rooms, classrooms, and collaboration and office spaces. Collaborating with local architect Voith & Mactavish Architects (VMA), we provided mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) review and design for all building systems.

This multi-year renovation project has resulted in complete life cycle upgrades to the facility and all its building systems. The new facility now reflects a corporate setting, featuring increased lounge and group study spaces to encourage more interaction between students and faculty.

We provided in-depth analysis and recommendations for modern, maintainable, and sustainable MEP building systems. This comprehensive effort included HVAC, all necessary electrical systems—such as power distribution and lighting, telecommunications, data, and security systems— as well as audiovisual and acoustic design requirements. Our scope also encompassed all necessary plumbing design, including gas, water, and sanitary drainage, along with fire protection design.

A significant aspect of this project included disconnecting the DeFrancesco building from the existing campus central steam plant. A new gas-fired condensing boiler plant was installed to provide heating and hot water for the building.

The new DeFrancesco building now offers a modernized learning and collaborative environment that will enhance the school’s business program to serve the University, its students, and the community for decades to come.