Drexel University Myers Hall

Myers Hall was a three-story residence hall built in 1977. The slab-on-grade structure used block and plank construction and wood roof trusses and was removed via a two-phase demolition process. The demolition made way for a multi-use greenspace and a new switchgear building that services neighboring buildings on Drexel University’s campus. The INTECH–WEBCO joint venture team coordinated abatement before the first phase of demolition of the north wing, which made room for the new switchgear building. The existing switchgear room remained intact and functioning until the new building and gear were in place and active. Phase two included the demolition of the remainder of the building. The site is considered a front lawn for students at Drexel University, comprising a non-regulation playing field and green space for casual gathering, framed by 16,000 square feet of native planting beds, porous pavers on the paths, and a plaza with seating. The new switchgear building is wrapped with a decorative brick screen that envelopes the utilitarian structure and pivots across the façade in varying transparencies, adding movement and adapting it to the landscape.