Springfield Technical Community College - Ira Rubenzhal Student Learning Commons

Building 19 was constructed between 1847 and 1863, as a storehouse for the Springfield Armory, the Nation’s oldest dating to the Revolutionary war.

The building was constructed as a storehouse and as such was never fully enclosed. The renovated building will house student and administrative functions. These include administrative offices, a student commons with café and activity areas, student services, study and tutoring spaces, a library, the campus bookstore, and health center.

Project Details

Study/Project Designer: Ann Beha Architects
Construction Manager: Consigli Construction
Project Type: CM at risk
Project Cost: $50 Million
Gross Square Feet: 118,000
Est. Substantial Completion Date: Fall 2018

Project Features

• The existing structure is approximately 764 feet long by 55 feet wide
• The renovation provides a modern interior for the campus center functions, while still maintaining the historic character of Building 19
• In most locations, existing masonry, structure and ceilings remain exposed
• New landscaping provides outdoor gathering space for staff and students, increase pedestrian safety, and connect Building 19 with  Buildings 17, 13, and 2
• A 6’ deep rain garden extends along the full length of the south façade to divert runoff from the combined storm/sewer drainage system
• Recipient of:
  • 2021 BSA Higher Education Facilities Design Award
  • 2017 Honor Award for “Excellence in Planning for a District or Campus Component” from the Society for College and University Planning
  • Honorable Mention for Excellence in Architecture for Building Additions, Renovation or Adaptive Reuse from the Society of College and University Planning (SCUP) for Building Additions, Renovation or Adaptive Reuse
  • Robert K. Kuehn Jr. Award from Preservation MA, which recognizes “extraordinary projects that meld collaborative partnerships with creative and cutting-edge ideas for the rehabilitation and active reuse of historic buildings.” 

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