The Eastern Michigan University (EMU) Rec/IM Building underwent an extensive renovation in 2020.
Partnering with TMP Architecture, the first two floors of the five-story building were completely overhauled. The remaining three levels received cosmetic updates.
Justin Jett, the director of Operations at the EMU Rec/IM, has been involved in multiple renovation projects.
As such, Jett has learned quite a few lessons along the way when it comes to renovations. “The first thing that should drive a renovation or new construction process is to know your stakeholders,” he said.
Then it’s bringing all the parties to the table to ensure they consider everything from custodial needs to double door access for deliveries. “Be proactive in the sense that times will change, and tomorrow’s needs will differ from today,” said Jett.
Renovations are something Bill Massey, an architectural principal and leader in design firm Sasaki’s sports practice, and Emily Parris, a senior associate at Sasaki, know a lot about.
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In fact, Massey noted renovating is a strategic way to extend and reinvigorate the lives of campus rec centers.
During a renovation project it’s important to think long term. “Avoid the patchwork or spot renovations which will further cement your investments in ways you can’t undo in the future,” said Massey.
Parris shared to look at your rec center holistically. Then, break down what you want into phases. “As part of this overview, you can also look at the surrounding site to consider any potential building expansions you can seamlessly tie into the overall project vision,” she said.
However, it’s key to balance the different wants and needs of each player at the renovation table. As Jett has learned, very few projects can accommodate all parties. “Be patient, realistic and know that despite not getting everything you would like, the renovated space will have a positive impact on stakeholders and enhance their experience,” he said.
In addition, Jett note there will be things that don’t end up the way you think they will. “For each thing that doesn’t work out as planned, that provides us an opportunity to rethink things and challenge ourselves to problem solve and work through them,” he said. “At the end of the day, taking action to renovate space is a step in the right direction regardless of if it is a small-scale or big budget renovation — progress is made.”
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Sometimes the small changes can be the biggest. As Parris pointed out, whether it’s converting racquetball courts to a two-story office space, adding a turf floor or giving a room a new coat of paint, renovations come in all shapes and sizes.
And what one can’t ignore is climate comfort. Parris said while it’s more fun to spend the entire budget to support programs, what’s behind the walls is critically important. “Systems have come a long way since the time your building was probably constructed,” said Parris. “That means better air quality, lower energy use and costs, more control, and the ability to integrate systems in a way you can coordinate with window operations and daylight access.”
It’s also key to renovate with the future in mind. Massey said ensure your general structure, lighting and mechanical upgrades can accommodate wall changes that may happen further down the road. “Trends come and go. There’s no way to predict how space will be used in the future. So, it’s important to think about ways to build in adaptability,” he said.
As you decide what to renovate, keep that long-term lens turned on. Jett said viewing the financial impact for the long run can help in the decision-making process. Yes, construction costs matter, but what about maintenance and upkeep? “There will be things you have to sacrifice for the sake of thinking long term and what costs you can sustain as time passes,” he explained.
Finally, Jett gave one last piece of advice from being part of numerous renovations on multiple campuses over the years. “Don’t be afraid to ask questions — and lots of them,” he said. “Always challenge everyone involved in the process to think bigger and shoot for the stars.”
