Graboyes Commercial Window Company recently achieved substantial completion on a white-glove historic window retrofit at Temple University’s Conwell & Carnell Halls, circa 1922 and 1928, which were some of the first campus buildings.
Historic architectural window replacement
Working with construction manager E.P. Guidi, Inc., and architect Atkin Olshin Schade, we installed 729 windows, five terrace doors, and three storefront / entrance openings. The new, historically accurate aluminum windows were engineered by Graham Architectural to match the original steel windows, which were deteriorated and energy inefficient. Some of the steel windows over the years had been replaced with aluminum windows of various inaccurate designs and sizes. The new replacement windows match the original historic profiles and restore the original site lines.
Occupied space / white glove service
The window replacement project spanned three phases over approximately 10 months and allowed for continuous occupancy of all areas of the buildings, which house administrative staff.
Graboyes’ operations manager Greg Laska, who managed the window replacement project, knows the campus well, having graduated from Temple in 2004 with a BS in civil construction engineering technology and a minor in business. He also is pursuing an MBA at Temple University Fox School of Business.
“The building occupants were continuously pleased with our methods of sheltering them from the renovations,” said Laska. “Even during the coldest months, the Temple staff members were able to work with minimal inconvenience or discomfort,” he said. Graboyes is known for working exceptionally well in occupied environments.
We were also fortunate to complete window replacements recently in the Anderson, Gladfelter, and Engineering Buildings. That construction project was executed in partnership with general contractor Gilbane and, like Conwell & Carnell, included windows by Graham Architectural.
Temple continues its transformation
Students returning to campus this fall are seeing many exciting construction upgrades. According to the university’s website, its Project Delivery Group is overseeing some 160 construction projects, from the new library to smaller renovations. Founder’s Garden has received a makeover, a new owl graces Alumni Circle, and the Bell Tower is undergoing renovation. The Howard Gittis Student Center reopens with a new food court, and a new student recreation facility also makes its debut. The Fox School of Business continues to expand, including a skywalk that will connect Speakman Hall with Liacouras Walk.
We’re so proud to say we helped out. Cherry on, Temple!