Administration Building Renovation & Expansion

Bluegrass Community and Technical College (BCTC) has selected Sherman Carter Barnhart Architects to renovate and add to their historic 19th-Century Administration Building on the BCTC Newtown Pike campus in Lexington.

To accommodate the growing needs of the college and provide accessible building services, the design solution will modernize the facility while preserving its historical character and charm, in compliance with State Historical Preservation Office guidelines. The renovation will update all systems and finishes within the building to provide a fresh overall appearance that is suitable for a building of its age and type. The design team is also focused on creating spaces that are abundant in natural light, enhancing the user experience, and thoughtful placement of windows to limit heat gain due to direct sunlight exposure.

The new addition has a contemporary design that complements the existing building without trying to copy its aesthetics. It will serve as the front door to the administrative complex and will provide at-grade entry into the building via ramps, and a new elevator accessing all levels of the existing and new structures, making it accessible to all. The program spaces for the addition include modern and accessible restrooms, up-to-date mechanical and electrical systems, a 300-person assembly space with a dedicated pre-function space, an employee break area, and catering space, and storage.

Overall, the project is aimed at balancing the need for modernization and expansion while preserving the historical character and charm of the existing structure.