The renovation adds many services that students have requested. The 353,000-sf building includes air conditioning, a computer lab, more student organization space, a 400-seat multipurpose theater, more study and lounge space, a full-service branch of U.S. Bank, a branch of STA Travel (a student-focused travel agency), a central 46,000-sf University Bookstore (opening in March 2003), and national food chains.
Students, who guided the project and are the primary source of funding for the renovation, have long anticipated Coffman’s opening. “Students are excited to once again have a gathering place and a student union that has the amenities we want,” said Hernick, a senior in the College of Biological Sciences.
The renovation adds more natural light and a glass face on the south side of the building to visually connect Northrop Mall with the Mississippi River, as the original campus planner, Cass Gilbert, intended. Many of the building’s original art deco features were also restored, including the original central first floor entrance, which features 1940s terrazzo flooring with brass inlays. A 17th century fountain was restored on the south plaza overlooking the river. Escalators were installed, making Coffman one of the few student unions in the country with this feature. The building will also be the first on campus with full wireless computer network capabilities. Students can access the Internet anywhere in the union, including its front lawn, with a laptop computer and a wireless adapter card.
Coffman Union was built in 1940 at a cost of $2 million, funded primarily by student fees and a public works grant, to accommodate 14,000 students. Coffman was remodeled in the mid-70s at a cost of $10.8 million to accommodate 42,000 students.
Demolition for the most recent renovation began in November 1999. The project’s $71.5 million budget is supported primarily by student fees and Coffman Union reserves, which are paying $48.6 million. Tenants are funding the remaining $22.9 million. The construction was completed by Ryan Companies, a design-build firm, and architect Ellerbe Becket.
“Coffman will link the past and the future, with a historic feel and state-of-the art capabilities fit to serve students of the 21st century,” said Maggie Towle, Coffman Union director. “We are excited to reopen Coffman and deliver to students not only one of the largest, but one of the best unions in the country.”
For more information on Coffman Union, including 360-degree panoramic tours of the interior, see www.coffman.umn.edu.
An innovator since its founding in 1909, Ellerbe Becket Becket is a leader in architecture, engineering and the construction industry with office locations worldwide.
