The GEM included a full renovation and seismic upgrade of the seven-story, 231- unit building originally constructed in 1966. The renovations created all new studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments, a student lounge on each floor, an exercise room, business center, six activity areas and public café. The project was named The GEM after the first Oregon State University campus newspaper and reflects the building’s colorful and creative image.
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Education, Higher Ed, Housing, Student, Renovation
Oregon State University College Inn – The Gem
Size
The GEM at Oregon State University included a full renovation and seismic upgrade of the 121,000 SF, seven-story, 231-unit College Inn building originally constructed in 1966.
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Testimonials
“Throughout the project, WALSH and the entire team were attentive to, and communicated regularly and well with, each other, the residential and business neighbors, and our University. The project, in addition to being a creative approach to building, is an enhancement of our campus as well as the surrounding neighborhood – many positive comments to this effect have been received.” - Tom Scheuermann, Director University Housing and Dining Services Oregon State University
The Gem involved a significant undertaking; the WALSH team brought the mechanical, electrical and plumbing trades into the design process early using a design-build competition approach. Through diligent and careful management the project was completed four months ahead of schedule.
Materials were reused, including the building’s exterior core and shell a majority of interior partitions, mechanical and electrical main systems, doors, door hardware and even bathroom mirrors.
The Gem includes 231 units of student housing for upperclassmen attending OSU. The remodel includes a lounge space on every floor, fitness facility, game rooms, study rooms, open meeting spaces and a coffee shop open to the public on the first floor. The early completion of The Gem exemplifies WALSH’s commitment to customer, developer and owner satisfaction.