Chapman Finished Southern New Hampshire University Renovations
Chapman Construction/Design finalized a multi-year infrastructure upgrade at the Manchester campus.
Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Home Renovation
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Chapman Construction/Design completed the final phase of renovations to the Robert A. Freese Student Center at Southern New Hampshire University in summer 2026. The project focused on modernizing building systems to improve energy efficiency.
Why it matters
The renovation project aimed to transition the facility toward cleaner energy sources while lowering overall electrical consumption. This approach ensures the student center remains operational while reducing its environmental footprint.
The overhaul replaced 18 gas-fired rooftop units with electric assemblies. The specialized units required a 64-week lead time for procurement.
The players
Chapman Construction/Design
This firm specializes in complex institutional renovations and managed the phased upgrade of the student center.
Southern New Hampshire University
This private university in Manchester hosts the Robert A. Freese Student Center, which served as the site for this renovation.
The details
Chapman Construction/Design installed LED lighting throughout the interior and exterior of the student center along with a new system of timers and dimmers. The team organized the work across two summer sessions to keep the facility open for students during the process.
Timeline
Summer 2025: The first phase of aesthetic improvements took place.
Summer 2026: The second phase completed the infrastructure overhaul.
Culture Shift
This project reflects the broader movement in higher education toward campus-wide sustainability. By prioritizing energy-efficient retrofits over new construction, the university aligns with growing institutional commitments to reduce carbon emissions.
The completed renovations provide students with a modernized, climate-controlled space throughout the academic year. These upgrades should lead to long-term energy savings for the university and a more efficient environment for daily campus activities.
The takeaway
Large-scale infrastructure projects can be completed successfully while maintaining daily facility operations through careful phased scheduling. Proper material procurement planning is essential to mitigate long lead times in complex renovation projects.
Further reading
Discover more updates on local improvements in the Home Renovation section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Nerej.
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