The renovation of the University of Georgia’s Shirley Mathis McBay Science Library 4th Floor reimagines a traditional library space into a modern, dynamic environment tailored for today’s students. With the original design dating back to 1968 , the space was underutilized, dominated by resource stacks and end of life building systems and
finishes. The new design embraces collaboration and individual study, with 50% of the existing stacks removed to allow for versatile seating arrangements, reservable rooms, and individual study pods. Upgraded building infrastructure including mechanical, electrical and lighting,enhances the experience, providing a comfortable student environment.

Spanning 22,500 square feet, the renovation was executed in two phases. Phase one focused on updating mechanical systems while phase two emphasized upgraded lighting and finishes, removal of stacks, and the strategic placement of team study rooms and collaborative lounge areas to introduce more natural light into the floor plate.

The design utilizes cove lighting to highlight reservable study rooms and collaboration spaces, giving students a welcoming and vibrant atmosphere. This renovation delivers a significant transformation within the budget by focusing on centralized high-traffic areas and creating comfortable, collaborative zones where students can thrive.

• ClientUniversity of Georgia
  
• LocationAthens, Georgia
• Project Size22,500 square feet