Reynolds Journalism Institute at University of Missouri

SFS managed the extensive renovation, restoration and adaptive reuse of two historic masonry buildings located on the Red Campus of the University of Missouri-Columbia.

The project for the School of Journalism included the new Reynolds Journalism Institute located between the Sociology Hall (ca 1892) and Walter Williams Hall (ca 1935). Each of the existing historic buildings were evaluated prior to the development of the design. The Sociology building had been vacant for several years and was in need of extensive work due to the lack of conditioning and attention while vacant. Walter Williams Hall was occupied at the commencement of the project, but was in need of maintenance repairs. Both buildings required cleaning of stone and brick, repointing, window replacement, new roofs, new interior finishes, restoration of terrazzo floors and stairs, new lighting and mechanical systems.

A detailed inventory of existing materials was completed, and an estimate of the work done early in the process. SFS worked with MU Facilities and Maintenance to understand issues they were aware needed repair. The exterior shell costs were separated from the costs associated with the Reynolds Journalism Institute.

The resulting 47,000 SF facility is connected, functional and easily navigated.  Inside, labs, classrooms, lecture halls, meeting rooms, library facilities, office spaces and other resources provide modern amenities with a user-friendly aesthetic and easily accessible technology. The new RJI facility creates continuity and a sense of place within the Quadrangle while enhancing the School of Journalism and the overall campus.

The work also encompassed field verification and recordation of current existing conditions, mortar testing and analysis, limestone and brick review and condition analysis, review, testing and recommendations for masonry cleaning and sealing, rehabilitation of the ornate metal cornice of the Sociology Building, and slate and copper roofing system review and window replacement recommendations. Design development studies and contract documents were produced depicting the extent of the exterior rehabilitation for all three buildings. Probable costs estimates were generated by the consulting cost estimator and recommendations for project scope were made based upon the construction cost findings.