Storrs, CT
University of Connecticut, Family Studies Building
Scope/Solutions
Home to the Department of Human Development and Family Studies and Lu’s Café, the Family Studies Building at the University of Connecticut features ornamental limestone cornices and window surrounds, mass brick masonry walls, slate and single-ply membrane roofs, and copper gutters. The steel-framed, single-paned windows were part of the original circa 1950 construction. SGH developed a window replacement program that preserved the original appearance of the building while improving the windows performance.
A primary goal of the project was to upgrade the existing windows to achieve better energy efficiency and durability. For this project, SGH:
- Investigated window performance, attachments, and flashing
- Recommended new windows, window flashing, and steel lintels
- Identified window types, features that optimized performance, and manufacturers that offered cost-effective options
- Specified replica aluminum windows with insulated glass and thermal breaks that minimized conduction of temperature between the inside and outside of the frames
- Reviewed concept and shop drawings, tested a mockup window installation, and conducted periodic site visits
- Designed gutter and downspout repairs, masonry restoration, roof replacement, and chimneys upgrades
Project Summary
Solutions
Repair & Rehabilitation | Preservation
Services
Building Enclosures
Markets
Education
Client(s)
Kagan Architecture and Planning
Specialized Capabilities
Condition Assessments | Preservation
Key team members
Joshua Kivela
Managing Principal, Building Technology, Waltham
Additional Projects
Northeast
Harvard Kennedy School Roof Replacement
The Harvard Kennedy School (HKS) campus consists of six interconnected academic buildings of varying height and age located around a central raised courtyard. SGH served as the designer of record for a multi-year, phased roof replacement project.
Northeast
Cornell University, Veterinary Research Tower
Cornell University commissioned a whole building condition assessment and design concepts for making code upgrades, improving energy efficiency, and addressing other maintenance. SGH assisted the architect by assessing the building enclosure’s condition and recommending repair options.



