The Old Chapel at the University of Massachusetts Amherst is one of the institution’s most cherished landmarks. Built in 1885 as the university’s first library, the building had been closed since 1996 due to code, accessibility and infrastructure concerns. UMass Amherst embarked on a major initiative to restore and repurpose the 17,000‑square‑foot structure, transforming it into a multiuse student and community venue for lectures, events, concerts, multimedia presentations, meetings and celebrations.
What challenges did STV address?
Restoring a 132‑year‑old historic building required a careful balance of preservation, modernization and programmatic expansion. As the owner’s project manager (OPM) STV was tasked with ensuring that the project protected the Old Chapel’s Richardsonian Romanesque architecture while addressing accessibility upgrades, structural rehabilitation and energy‑efficiency targets aligned with the university’s Sustainable UMass goals. Coordinating design and construction teams for such a sensitive, high‑profile project demanded strong leadership and close client communication.
What solutions did STV deliver?
STV oversaw consultant and contractor procurement, guided design development and verified that the restoration program met the university’s aesthetic, functional and sustainability objectives. The team coordinated code compliance strategies, accessibility improvements, and energy‑efficient systems integration while maintaining the building’s historic character. STV’s stewardship helped deliver a LEED® Gold facility that now stands as a revitalized centerpiece of campus life.
How does this project benefit the community?
The restored Old Chapel provides UMass Amherst students, alumni, faculty and visitors with a dynamic, flexible gathering place that strengthens campus identity and celebrates university heritage. Its modern amenities, improved accessibility, and sustainable building systems support a wide range of academic and cultural programming, ensuring that this iconic structure remains an active contributor to campus life for generations.
Key Stats and Accolades
- Awarded ENR New England “Best Project”
- 17,000‑sf historic restoration
- LEED® Gold certified
- Listed on the National Register of Historic Places
- Adaptive reuse for events, lectures, performances, and community functions
