Macalester College Studio Arts Building: Structural & Civil Engineering for Creative Spaces

Project Overview

BKBM provided comprehensive structural and civil engineering services for the complete renovation of the 27,000 SF Studio Arts Building and a 7,000 SF third-floor addition at Macalester College—the second phase of the campus Fine Arts Facility renewal. The project addressed both extensive upgrades to an existing structure and complex site redevelopment.

Project Highlights

  • Comprehensive Renovation & Addition:
    • Full renovation of the existing Studio Arts Building, plus a new third-floor addition to increase capacity for academic and creative programming.
    • An entirely new building envelope was constructed to fully enclose previously exposed concrete framing, improving durability and energy performance.
    • Surface improvements and new site features installed over the below-grade power plant and oil vault.
  • Advanced Structural Solutions:
    • Fiber-reinforced polymers were used to enhance the load capacity of existing concrete beams, ensuring the structural integrity of the expanded facility.
    • The new floor and roof structures were framed to enable future green roof installation, supporting sustainability initiatives.
  • Civil Engineering & Site Redevelopment:
    • Redevelopment of 1.9 acres, including a new parking lot, plaza areas, and permeable paved sidewalks.
    • Civil design included complex grading and drainage over underground utilities, site demolition, SWPPP, and provision of new utilities.
    • Stormwater management for this project phase tied into previously installed sitewide stormwater tanks.
    • Traffic calming measures were incorporated into the parking lot entry from Macalester Street.

Engineering Solutions

BKBM’s integrated approach delivered structural upgrades for vertical expansion, seismic and sustainability improvements, and tailored civil engineering for challenging underground conditions. Collaboration with the project team ensured that the design supported both creative use and campus resilience.

Results & Impact

The Studio Arts Building renovation and addition have rejuvenated a key Macalester College arts asset, delivering expanded creative spaces, modernized infrastructure, and site enhancements that enrich the campus experience. BKBM’s engineering enabled flexible, sustainable, and inspiring environments for future generations of students and faculty.