Drexel University Bentley Hall & Honors College Addition

Hunter Roberts performed construction management services for a multi-phased renovation of the 87,000 SF former Calhoun Hall, and the 11,000 SF Pennoni Honors College addition at Drexel University. The revitalization of Calhoun Hall was aimed at the freshmen population, offering 408 beds (211-rooms) set up like other traditional, first-year halls on campus.

The renovations included restoration of the 8-story brick façade, replacement of windows and full interior renovations of student residence units and community space. The residence hall’s flooring, ceilings, lighting, HVAC system, furniture, and elevators were all updated, with the focus of the project being on creating more collaboration and student spaces. This is apparent on the ground floor, which boasts ample space for quiet study, as well as laundry facilities and an office suite for Honors College staff.

Hunter Roberts relocated the existing 15Kv electrical duct bank that fed campus buildings. This relocation and switchover had to be closely coordinated with Drexel University due to the impacts of other buildings. The phased turnover of the renovated dorm building and the two story addition required the existing water and fire service to remain intact during the erection of the 2-story addition. A new meter pit for the fire and water services was installed while the dorm remained occupied.

The connected 11,000-SF, 2-story glass and stone addition is the new epicenter of the University’s Pennoni Honors College.  The addition includes a mixed façade with curtainwall, stone and punched windows with community seminar rooms, study lounges, and faculty offices. Bentley Hall was occupied in 2019, before construction of the Phase 2 addition.