Roanoke College’s Lucas Hall reopens this fall after an impressive makeover. Renovations and an addition, which nearly doubled its size, make Lucas prominent in stature. Provisions in maintaining its beauty and enhancing its efficiency make it a state-of-the art facility. On certification, Lucas will represent Roanoke Colleges first LEED project, signifying the campus’s commitment to sustainability.
The new Lucas Hall is rich in technology, environmentally friendly and still classic. The original character of the structure remained intact while the College took it from 13,449 square feet to over 26,000.
Early on, a commitment was made to seek LEED certification from the United States Green Building Council. Sustainable features in Lucas include mechanical, lighting and electrical systems designed to achieve increased energy efficiency, dual flush toilets, motion-activated faucets and light fixtures as well as high performance windows. A storm water treatment system captures and removes pollutants and rainfall runoff.
Ninety-five percent of existing walls, floors and roof areas were retained or reused. At least 87 percent of non-hazardous construction waste was recycled and diverted from landfills. Over 50 percent of all wood products are certified by the Forest Stewardship Council, and more than ten percent of all materials used to renovate Lucas Hall came from recycled products.
Design elements that include cutting-edge technology and flexibility of space were incorporated as often as possible. The building includes a high-tech media classroom, a computer lab, larger workspaces to accommodate more modes of technology and audio-visual equipment prominent in classrooms and meeting spaces. Two classrooms have retractable walls, which can be used to create one much larger space if needed. Television monitors in lobby areas will air telecasts related to foreign languages curricula. A rooftop garden terrace provides additional outdoor space to enhance the meeting and teaching experience.
The successful renovation and expansion of Lucas Hall provides a lynchpin for Roanoke College’s commitment to maintaining its classic setting while minimizing its impact on the environment.
