The classroom/conference room at the Daniel Turfgrass Research Building received a complete renovation this summer. Work on the project, sponsored by the Office of the Indiana State Chemist, began May 1st and was completed in time for attendees of the Lawncare Diagnostic Training Seminar in mid-August. The Turf Center building was constructed in 1999, and the classroom received a minor facelift in 2012 with new paint, flooring, and reupholstering of the chairs. This renovation went much deeper to become a complete remake of the room.
- New ceilings with the ceiling height maximized were installed. The simplified configuration is clean and attractive, with the hidden projector shelf adding a smart touch.
- A cleaner, simplified design was created by removing the folding room divider wall as well as the cabinets containing the old lighting controls, and moving the wiring from the wall surface chases into the walls.
- The even LED lighting, removal of the old room divider, and elimination of the bulky AV box have transformed the room’s circulation and overall atmosphere.
- The sound-damping wood detail behind the markerboard creates both function and a striking focal point, improving the acoustics and aesthetics of the room.
- The new flooring and updated furniture make the room feel lighter and the room configuration easier.
- The highly-integrated AV system equipped with new speakers and microphones allows for remote teaching/meeting capabilities.
The classroom/conference room at the Daniel Turfgrass Research has been utilized by many groups in the green industry as well as Purdue hosting 3,000-5,000 visitors/year for over 26 years. With completion of this renovation, the Turf Center is set to serve well as a meeting and training venue for the years ahead.