University of Wisconsin-Madison – Memorial Union Renovation

Centered at the heart of the UW-Madison campus since 1928, the Memorial Union serves as a social and educational gathering place for students and community members alike. The west wing renovation project made use of select demolition, additions and restorations to grow programming, improve accessibility, update life safety and increase energy efficiency. The project also reconstructed the Lake Mendota shoreline, on which the Memorial Union sits.

The scope of work on this complex project included expansion of the west wing, restoration of the 1,000-seat historic theater, new arts studio / gallery space, reconstruction of the 200-seat Play Circle Theater and a redesigned outdoor recreation area, among others. Because of the importance of the Memorial Union to the university’s campus experience and student life, it was essential that the union and the iconic terrace remain open during construction, a special challenge given the tight urban site and its position along the lake restricting access. By working in close coordination with the university’s stakeholders and key trade partners, Boldt helped develop a complex phasing plan to deliver the project safely and efficiently.