Modernizing existing facilities for the next generation: Dining, housing, and recreation

Across higher education, institutions are rethinking how to modernize aging facilities without expanding their physical footprint. This session explores how comprehensive renovations— rather than new construction — can transform existing buildings into vibrant, efficient, and future-ready environments that meet the evolving expectations of today’s students. Through recent projects, Sarah Lappano demonstrates how revitalized dining, housing, and recreation facilities can maximize space utilization, enhance student engagement, and extend building life while dramatically improving operational performance. She highlights strategies for upgrading building systems, optimizing envelope performance, and aligning design solutions with long-term sustainability and maintenance goals. She provides insights into how adaptive reuse can deliver high-impact results that balance functionality, aesthetics, and institutional stewardship.