University of Connecticut Gant Building Renovation

This 1970’s brutalist engineering building at the University of Connecticut is a multi-phased project and another example of Atelier Ten’s existing building experience. Atelier Ten optimized the sustainable footprint of this extensive renovation to meet the goals established in UConn’s 20-Year Masterplan and NEXGEN ambitions.

This unique opportunity demonstrated how a moderate intensity lab building could be designed to enhance comfort, while minimizing energy and water consumption, and improving the quality of the learning environment.

Atelier Ten prioritized the need to improve the envelope and reduce high infiltration rates through the existing façade. By focusing on the balance between increased insulation and façade integrity, we conducted extensive analyses to inform the design that ultimately reduced energy consumption and enhanced thermal comfort.

Atelier Ten created a lighting design that spoke to the modern ambitions of the engineering building through balancing daylight with electric light, introducing control systems to maximize energy efficiency while simultaneously providing occupants with comfortable lighting levels, tailored to facilitate academic activities. The double helix fixture located in the stairwell is nod to the pedagogy while illustrating our ability to use light in a creative manner. In this semi-rural location, exterior lighting was designed to maintain a safely lit site while not disrupting wildlife or contributing to light pollution.