Kenan renovations complete

Photo by Danielle Marsh

Kenan Hall, which had not been updated for 25 years, received a face lift this summer, courtesy of bond proceeds from the addition of the FEC buildings.

Math, reading, writing labs moved to Learning Resource Center

By Taylor Toothman | ttoothman@flagler.edu

Kenan Hall, Flagler College’s main academic classroom building, has a new look.

Funds raised by bond proceeds from the purchase of the Florida East Coast Railway buildings have given the college the opportunity to renovate the building, which hasn’t seen major updates for 25 years.

“The building had a 1982 look and needed a more contemporary look,” President William T. Abare Jr. said.

Larry Weeks, the director of Flagler’s Business Services and Campus Planning, managed the entire project, which cost $1.2 million.

Green Space Interior Designer, C. Young Construction, and the college’s architect, Ken Smith, contributed their expertise.

“Dr. Abare wanted to make it was very inviting and nice for the students, faculty and staff that work there,” Weeks said. “Also, the college hired new faculty members and there was a need for additional faculty offices.”

Kenan Hall’s overhaul consisted of refurbishing its halls and Molly’s Place, the former snack bar.

The corridors on the first, second, third and fourth floors were completely renovated with new carpet, paint, energy efficient lights, bathroom countertops and a new handicap accessible unisex bathroom on the third floor.

The math, reading and writing labs were also converted into faculty offices, while Molly’s Place became a Learning Resource Center.

The renovation had been on the college’s project list for a few years, but it was not a priority because of the other major projects that were more pressing, namely the construction of the Cedar Street dorm, the renovation of dormitory rooms in Ponce de Leon Hall, which is ongoing, the construction of the Ringhaver Student Center and the rehabilitation of the Molly Wiley Art Building.

“Everyone at Flagler benefits from this project — faculty, students, and staff,” Abare said. “The feedback has been very positive, especially the returning students who are delighted with the improved appearance of the building.”