University of Kentucky Cooper House Renovation

Architect of Record: Lord Aeck Sargent Planning & Design

Landscape Architect & Civil Engineer: Element Design

Structural Engineer: Brown + Kubican Structural Engineers

Mechanical & Electrical Engineer: Shrout Tate Wilson Consulting Engineers

General Contractor: Marrillia Design & Construction

Owner: University of Kentucky

Location: Lexington, KY

Category: Additions/Renovations/Restoration: less than $5M

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Built in the 1880s, the venerable Cooper House is a beacon of academia on the University’s campus and has stood the test of time. The building has been revitalized to better serve the College of Agriculture, Food & Environment. Integrating modern functionality while preserving its historical integrity, the design merged tradition with innovation to create dynamic communal areas, event venues, and office spaces. The project aimed to harmonize legacy and progress, honoring the building’s rich heritage by balancing original features with contemporary additions, resulting in advanced academic facilities that respect its historical significance.

Additional Information

“The Cooper House is a beautifully detailed 1880’s building carefully restored to serve as a welcoming visitor center. The building received ‘just the right amount’ of renovation and reinterpretation. A restored historic stair is featured along with broad jambs and base boards. The notable expansion of a modern meeting and event space on the north side sets the stage for the other buildings in the composition.”- Jury Comment

Jury

  • David Black, AIA, Design Principal and Partner, Flad Architects, Madison, WI  (Jury Chair)
  • Michael P. Eberle, AIA, Founding Partner, Aro Eberle Architects, Madison, WI
  • Jeffrey Charles Raasch, AIA, Architect, adjunct university instructor, Taliesin Preservation Board, WI
  • James W. Shields, FAIA, Design Principal, HGA Architects & Engineers, Milwaukee, WI

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