Westminster College - Hoyt Science Center Master Planning & Renovation

Client

ONE-THIRD

of Westminster’s students major in STEM-related fields.

Hoyt Science Hall Renovation and Addition

01 Challenge

Westminster College engaged BHDP to conduct a building master plan and design and implement phased renovations to Hoyt Hall—a building that houses the College’s flagship science programs. To enhance the student experience, provide modern learning environments, and create inspirational public spaces, BHDP executed renovations focused on improvements to the main entry, central atrium, classrooms, labs, and study lounges, as well as designed a new three-story addition.

02 Solution

The renovations created new student study and collaboration areas and developed the building wayfinding system, and the improvements have immediately resulted in increased activity in the building. The total renovation and expansion of the Hoyt Science Center sets Westminster apart from other colleges and universities, and the project enables faculty to continue offering a high-quality education.

Quick Facts

Size 81,500 SF

Location New Wilmington, PA

Cost $20 million

03 Results

The renovated facility supports an education rich in experience and collaboration, preparing graduates for industries like healthcare, manufacturing, energy, and information technology that power the surrounding region’s growth and progress.

Awards

Clear glass gives students a view into a nearby lab

Clear glass allows science to be put on display in the building's new addition.

Students gather in a private meeting room to problem solve

Students or faculty can utilize private meeting rooms when they are seeking a quiet place to collaborate or problem solve.

Students work together in a new collaboration zone between classes

Between classrooms, new collaboration zones offer space for students to informally gather and study.

In a classroom, students look toward the front of the class at their teacher

Students take advantage of the open work area with different nooks and huddle rooms

Large yellow booths line the wall of a corridor, providing space for students to gather

With one-third of Westminster’s students majoring in STEM-related fields, the new expansion—combined with the previously renovated section of Hoyt—increases Westminster’s capacity to teach, collaborate, and prepare students for the opportunities they will find in graduate school and (their) industry.

Dr. Kathy Brittain Richardson, President for Westminster College

Students work inside the third-floor open atrium

Inside the Hoyt Science Center, the central atrium is airy and bright—offering spaces for students to gather and study.

A before shot of the atrium shows poor lighting and older finishes

A before shot of the atrium shows how dramatically the space has transformed due to various upgrades.

Forge Biologics

Hoyt Science Hall Renovation and Addition

Dr. Kathy Brittain Richardson, President for Westminster College