The brick is here! Starting this week, passers-by will begin to see the first bricks being applied to the exterior walls, work that will continue until winter weather puts it on hold until spring. As the grey concrete disappears, students, faculty, and staff might think the exterior is the major change to the existing FAC, but new roofing, new insulation, new windows (considerably larger than what was originally there!) and new exterior doors are also on the way.

Beyond those exciting and necessary renovations, it is the less visible and less exciting changes that will make the building far more pleasant for those in our vibrant Departments of Art and Art History, Music, and Theatre who occupy it every day. For example, considerable site work has resulted in better drainage, and damp-proofing efforts are starting to ensure much-needed drier air throughout the building. A brand-new Mechanical Room is underway, which will house new boilers and new air handling units.

A new HVAC system will be installed, as well as new ductwork where needed and a sprinkler system. There will be some abatement of asbestos. In the spring, we look forward to seeing new landscaping create beautiful grounds surrounding the building.