The Ohio State University Thompson Library
Cost $105,000,000
Size 76,000 SF (New)
230,000 SF (Renovation)
HEAPY provided mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire protection design for the complex historic renovation of the William Oxley Thompson Memorial Library. Built in 1913, the grand, limestone structure towers 11 stories and is a centerpiece of the OSU campus. The $105M project renovated 230,000 SF of floor space, and also added a 60,000 SF addition to replace a previous 1977 addition.
The project included replacement and upgrades to all MEP systems. Before design, HEAPY conducted a complete life cycle analysis to help the team plan for upgrades today while looking at the long-term maintenance and replacement costs of future upgrades.
The renovated library now showcases its awe-inspiring collection with brighter spaces, transparent glass, and improved wayfinding. The space preserves high-density print collection storage while offering new digital information resources and areas for both quiet study and interactive group learning. The building’s original aesthetic was modernized yet preserved, restored to its original grandeur.
AIA Columbus Merit Award
ABC Excellence in Construction Eagle Award
SCUP/AIA-CAE Excellence in Architecture Renovation/Adaptive Reuse
