University of Akron (Ohio) Libraries, Center for the History of Psychology

Reclamations and Renovations: A local shipping company donated a 70,000-square-foot building constructed in 1915 to be the new home of the Center for the History of Psychology. The abandoned building (inset), however, required extensive renovations to make it safe as a workplace and appropriate for archival storage, such as the removal of original cast iron boilers and abatement of asbestos-wrapped pipe insulation. The renovation added a promenade to the front exterior to create a more open, welcoming space. Many original building features, including ceilings, wall panels, and decorative moldings were retained in the renovation. The LEED-certified project used recycled building materials.
Architect: Creo Design in partnership with Chaintreuil|Jensen|Stark Architects LLP
Photos: Center for the History of Psychology, The University of Akron