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
Cornell University, Goldwin Smith Hall
The north wing of Goldwin Smith Hall was constructed in 1893 and the remainder of the building, designed by Carrère & Hastings, was completed in 1904. SGH investigated the existing roof and designed a replacement roofing system that is both durable and historically-sensitive.
Northeast
Horace Mann School for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing
The Horace Mann School, the country's oldest public day school for the deaf and hard of hearing, is temporarily relocating to the Edwards School building in Charlestown, Massachusetts. SGH is serving as the structural engineer of record for the project.



