Esports Take Center Stage in Fulcrum Associates Dorm Renovations at Southern New Hampshire University

Academic & Institutional, Press Release, Renovation

Windsor and Hampton Hall received full interior renovation for enhanced pod-style living; gaming suite in Hampton Hall renovated for launch of gaming-themed community living

Amherst, NH – (August 30, 2018) – Fulcrum Associates, a leading construction management firm in southern New Hampshire, completed dorm renovations at Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) to support the University’s recently launched varsity esports program. The gaming suite in Hampton Hall was renovated in preparation for state-of-the-art gaming equipment upgrades. Interior renovations throughout the remainder of the building, and adjacent Windsor Hall dormitory, were also completed. Windsor and Hampton Halls are the only pod-style residences on campus, and Hampton hosts SNHU’s theme communities dedicated to wellness, substance-free living, and new this fall semester, gaming.

Esports are multiplayer video games played competitively for spectators, and are gaining popularity on college campuses on a national level. SNHU has the first competitive esports program in New Hampshire and will begin offering scholarships to students next year. Fulcrum was hired to upgrade the gaming suite in Hampton Hall, which will house the first group of students living in the gaming-themed community. The gaming suite is currently being outfitted with the latest in gaming furniture, screens and access before students begin to move in on September 2. To prepare for the installation of new gaming equipment, Fulcrum’s team enhanced the space for optimal usage. Upgrades include new HVAC equipment for temperature control and new aluminum storefront demising walls to separate areas. All walls include a double layer of insulation for additional sound attenuation and roller shades were installed in windows to reduce outside light pollution.

“We want to sincerely thank Fulcrum for understanding and implementing our vision for these new, renovated spaces in our residence halls,” said Monther Mardini, Associate Vice President Capital Construction, Southern New Hampshire University. “We are confident that these new upgrades will enhance the campus experience and support our campus students for years to come.”

The majority of the renovation project consisted of interior finishing upgrades throughout all five stories of both dorms, including new ceilings, paint, highly-durable luxury vinyl tile flooring and a new LED lighting system making both buildings more energy efficient. Additionally, floor-to-ceiling glass walls were installed in all lobbies to create common study and lounge spaces for residents. Between the two buildings there are a total of 44 suites, which contain 174 rooms housing 264 students. A new entryway, 64 square feet larger than the original, was installed in each suite allowing SNHU to outfit the suites with brand new, contemporary furniture.

“SNHU’s esports program will undoubtedly draw the interest of future students from all over the world, and Fulcrum is proud to have played a role in preparing this incredibly valuable space and opportunity for students,” said Jeff Luter, President of Fulcrum. “SNHU is considered one of the most innovative educational institutions in the country and we feel privileged to have earned their trust through this renovation.”

Renovations were completed in eight weeks, and Fulcrum’s project team included: Gate City Electric, CAC Mechanical, Bellmore Plumbing Services, Noonan Brothers Painting, R Fraser Flooring, Trico Millwork, Lang Door and Hardware, Granite State Glass, All Bright Systems, Rockingham Interiors, Arrow Containers, J&R Langley, Janitech Cleaning, Northstar Construction Services and Xcel Fire Protection.