Education

Cambridge, MA | Goody Clancy 

Laboratory renovations require precise work and close coordination with the end-user to ensure that the build-out supports the scientific efforts being conducted. MIT has hired Vantage Builders for a number of laboratory projects, most recently when the university welcomed Professor Fan Wang, a new faculty member in the McGovern Institute. To support Dr. Wang’s well-known work on sensory perception, pain, and behavior, MIT requested that the existing two-lab layout be revised to accommodate a single, larger lab. New air, vacuum, and CO2 gas piping lines were installed to support Dr. Wang’s team’s work, while existing HVAC and ducting were reconfigured. Safety measures include a new eye wash station and emergency showers. A key component of the project was to coordinate the schedule to allow Dr. Wang’s team to continue their critical work during construction, while also minimizing disruption to adjacent labs. New shelving and equipment were installed in a layout that helps maximize efficiency within the lab. 

Lincoln, MA | 17,000 SF | Creager Hayes Architects 

The University of Massachusetts Lowell Research Institute (UMLRI) develops innovative solutions for a wide range of defense and commercial customers. Vantage Builders renovated UMLRI’s satellite campus in Lincoln, MA creating multiple private offices, conference rooms, and a training area. The space features a highly technical audio-visual package with fully integrated video platforms. The project included new duct work throughout, as well as a full data package to support the Institute’s heavy network requirements. Many materials used in the renovation required long lead times, so Vantage coordinated orders and deliveries and provided precise planning that maintained the renovation schedule. Vantage Builders worked closely with multiple departments throughout the University of Massachusetts, Lowell as well as the tenant in the adjacent occupied suite to minimize disruptions to all user groups. 

Waltham, MA | 30,000 SF | Fusion Design Consultants, Inc. 

To create more space for its growing teams, Brandeis University enlisted Vantage Builders to create a new suite for its office for Institutional Advancement at 51 Sawyer Road near its main campus. The multi-floor renovation required close coordination and heavy logistical planning with not only the Brandeis team, but also the property manager at 51 Sawyer and the tenants occupying the adjacent space to ensure minimal disruptions. The Vantage team created a new layout with over 90 individual offices, several meeting rooms and breakout spaces with movable partitions. Vantage also updated the HVAC system from pneumatic controls to DDC controls requiring tight containment so that dust associated with the renovation did not affect the newly renovated, highly trafficked open air lobby adjacent to the suite. The space is highly functional and features a cohesive design flow to provide all user groups with the same experience when utilizing each area. 

Durham, NH | 3,100 SF | Placework

Vantage has completed many projects in the Education market and in the Fitness/Recreation market. We were able to combine our experience in the two when the firm was hired by the University of New Hampshire to renovate the men’s football locker room. Key to the project – as is often the case in the Education market – was precise planning, as the building was occupied during construction, and the season was soon to start. We installed new, spacious changing areas, featuring plenty of room for each player’s gear, a locker for personal belongings and integrated USB charging ports. New carpeting throughout the locker room is mold and mildew resistant. The upgraded AC unit maintains a comfortable environment, particularly important after a tough practice. LED lighting, comfortable bench and chair seating, and a beverage station create a bright, relaxing atmosphere. The walls feature UNH blue and white paint, as well as team and player award plaques, helping to instill Wildcats pride.

Warwick, RI | 11,000 SF | Jarmel Kizel Architects and Engineers

As part of The Learning Experience’s nationwide expansion, Vantage Builders completed its first center in Rhode Island, an 11,000-SF location in Warwick. The project began with a complete gut of the building, which was previously occupied by a security systems company. The Vantage team transformed the previously drab building into a vibrant, bright, welcoming location that will attract children and their parents. A highlight of the center is Make Believe Boulevard, a colorful miniature “Main Street, USA” that is designed to develop and expand socio-dramatic play among children. The center has eight separate classrooms for children of different ages, from infants to pre-school. Vantage created a staff room/lounge for caregivers, a large pantry and a laundry room, and completed building systems work such as new HVAC, fire sprinkler, plumbing and roof. Vantage built two playgrounds, featuring soft rubber surfacing for children’s safety, as well as a soccer field with artificial field turf. To be fair, the security systems company probably had some cool gadgets but 60 Jefferson Park Road is way more fun now.