Dillard University Lawless Chapel
Project Information
- Owner Dillard University
- Design Manning Architects
- Size 17,000 Square Feet
- Budget $2,980,647
- Completion December 2008
Located on the historic campus of Dillard University, Lawless Chapel serves as the home of numerous campus functions and special events. Woodward Design+Build brought their extensive experience in historic restoration and their experience on the campus of Dillard University to completely restore, renovate and upgrade the facility.
The Lawless Chapel project required the renovation and reconfiguration of the existing chapel into a multi-purpose concert and assembly facility. This involved extensive coordination with the owner regarding the installation of A/V and lighting equipment. New lighting was installed along with the refurbishment of some existing fixtures. The altar area was reconfigured to maximize "stage" square footage while still matching the existing finishes in Chancel
Further interior renovations included repairing, restoring and replacing woodwork, millwork, doors, and frames to match the originals. Restrooms were refurbished or replaced. The Chancel ceiling dome was replastered, and new lighting was installed within the dome. A wooden catwalk was constructed in the attic for easy access to lighting, a/c ducts and equipment. New HVAC systems were installed in the attic to service the chapel. The mechanical room was reconfigured, including relocation of the existing equipment, to service the offices. The ceiling in Choir Room had to be removed and replaced to install the large A/C unit in the loft. A new ceiling, hatch and Lapeyre stair were installed for easy access to equipment. The existing ceiling finishes in the Nave were removed, and Pyrock Acoustement Plaster was installed to achieve an NCR of completed Assembly between 6 and 7. The Social Room was reconfigured and refinished. Some flooring in the Chancel was removed and replaced to match the existing slate in the Chancel, Nave and Balcony.
The exterior renovations included the repair, restoration and replacement of existing plaster finishes, including the re-work of molding and medallions to match the profile of the originals. A wheelchair lift was installed at the side entrance of the building to access the Chancel area. The entrance for the lift was cut into existing masonry wall, where the existing woodwork and millwork was matched. A new clay tile roof and copper gutter system were replaced, as well as the original wood frames, doors and moldings.
