Student center reimagined into major events space

Degenstein Center Renovation/Addition

The Degenstein Center has been a focal point for the Susquehanna University community for more than 55 years, but needed to grow to help support the campus. Renovations and additions to the existing campus student center provide a 5,600 SF event space for 380 people, renovation of the student dining facilities, and the expanded lounge space now includes a Starbucks. This renovation seamlessly blends historic charm with modern functionality and creates a space that fosters collaboration and community.

K&W added value to the project by being a seamless team member. Coordination was close with the architect, MEP designer, and owner in a very tight site. K&W provided the team with knowledge of the local municipal requirements and navigated local approvals.

Work was broken into three phases, with the building addition occurring in phase two. The building addition will house a new main entrance and the main event space. Site stormwater is managed in a subsurface system beneath the new parking. Phases one and three involved mainly interior renovations for the building.

Parking and pedestrian traffic was enhanced and additional pathways were designed to better support the flow of pedestrians on campus. New walkways connecting to the building expansion had to integrate with existing campus walkways while accommodating the relocated parking areas