After 34 years Keyano College’s on-campus residence, Clearwater Hall, more commonly known as “the purple palace,” underwent $4-million in renovations. Built in 1983, the facility had not received any major upgrades since its original construction.
Keyano’s Board of Governors approved the renovation project to be competed in two phases, with the Stirling Group being the prime contractor and RBC the financing partner. Work began mid-May to minimize student impact and this fall the 20 unit facility will be home to 118 students. Clearwater Hall is the preferred home of athletes, first year and international students
“We are very excited to reveal the totally refurbished Clearwater Hall,” said Keyano College President and CEO, Tracy Edwards. “We believe that providing market focused programs and comfortable, modern and inviting housing, this will attract quality students.”
The phase one renovations to the facility required a complete gutting of the building and cost about $3.2-million. It included new plumbing throughout, new windows in the suites as well as upgraded Wi-Fi and electrical, including energy efficient LED lighting throughout the building. Kitchens and bathrooms were modernized with new fixtures and cabinetry. Flooring was replaced throughout and the interior was freshly painted. Each dorm has beautifully built in bedframes, desks and open concept shelving, and furniture in the living areas have been replaced.
The lobby area of the facility has also recovered major changes. It will now be open for residences and the public, featuring a security desk with key or access cards required to enter the proper residence area. Security will also be increased with additional lighting and cameras in the stairwells.
Phase two of the project includes the upgrading and modernization of the elevators and will be completed in the summer of 2018.
The renovations will extend the life of the building for another 25 years and will also save the college costs on energy and maintenance.
