Originally constructed in 1964, the State University of New York College at Geneseo’s Letchworth Dining Hall underwent a complete renovation to provide the campus with a modernized, multi-functional eatery that serves as the heart of student activity in the North Village.
Photographer: Tim Wilkes Photography
Client
State University Construction Fund
Location
Geneseo, New York
Total Project Cost
$14 M
Project Type
Student Hospitality
Completed
2014
Size
38,000 s.f
Services
Architecture, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Plumbing Engineering, Structural Engineering
Key Contact
Todd Liebert

LEED Certification
In addition to capitalizing on the beautiful views of the Genesee Valley to the west, the facility also “walks the sustainable walk” with its LEED Silver Certification from the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification program.
High-performing mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) design solutions were strategically employed to curtail utility costs and enhance overall building efficiency. This encompassed the implementation of a geothermal heat pump system that recirculates water from 300 to 400 ft. deep wells, capitalizing on renewable energy sources to minimize environmental impact while reducing expenses.
Additional MEP improvements included the installation of 27 ceiling-mounted water-to-air heat pumps and two heat recovery ventilation air handling units. These systems work synergistically with the ground source heat pump system to efficiently absorb and reject heat within the building, achieving an impressive 75% thermal effectiveness.
Collectively, each sustainable enhancement has a multifaceted impact, yielding cost savings, environmental benefits, better indoor air quality and improved comfort for students and staff.
The Letchworth Dining Hall was also awarded a Gold Medal for Residential Dining Concepts from the National Association of College & University Food Services, affirming its excellence in providing not just sustenance, but an outstanding dining experience for the university community.