Maxwell Library Feasibility Study

Bridgewater State University

Location: Bridgewater, MA

Total GSF: 32,269 GSF Existing and Options for a 2,000, 4,000 and 8,000 GSF Addition

This two-part planning study explores options for incorporating new programs and better arranging existing occupants on the ground floor of the Maxwell Library. Certain spaces were to remain in place and untouched, including the College of Graduate Studies, a lecture hall and two classrooms that had recently been renovated. Planning for the new Faculty Innovation Center as well improving spaces and adjacencies for the existing Academic Achievement Center, the I.T. Department with Help Desk, and three general classrooms resulted in a total space need that exceeded existing available floor area.

The second part of the study examines strategies to extend the existing building in three different sized configurations to accommodate all the space needs identified. Addition strategies create a new massing on Park Avenue with independent entry and identity for the Faculty Innovation Center. Cost estimates were provided for each. A 2,000 GSF addition will not accommodate all the program needs identified. The 4,000 GSF addition will accommodate all the program but was deemed too small to be economically viable. An 8,000 GSF addition adds a second story to the new construction footprint and would relieve space issues on the First Floor for the Library.