Story

This project consisted of a total renovation of an existing building (Old Thomas Cadillac building) into a Performing Arts center for the University of Hartford.   The project duration was just over a year long including selective demolition of the existing facility.  New parking lots were included in the renovation of the facility.  The project was unique as it consisted of many separate Performance Studios each designed for a specific purpose.  Two larger Performance spaces are the focal point of the project, complete with Theatrical Lighting, Dimming and State of the Art Sound systems.  Support spaces including offices, Dressing rooms, backstage areas, Costumes, Set Design & Construction spaces round out the facility.  Some of the challenges encountered during construction included the constant need to maintain sound and light control in each of the Studios.  Special measures were utilized for all trades, especially Electrical and Special Systems installed by ECI.  Every junction box installed was wrapped with specified sound blankets to reduce the sound and light transfer into the spaces.  Sound and light anti rooms were constructed for each of the spaces.  Special Vibration isolators were installed to reduce unwanted sound transmission during performances.  The layout of the building was also challenging.  The project stretches out over entire city block with just one main electrical room.  Some of the feeders on the job were over 600' long.  Special provisions were made to compensate for this during the layout and construction phases.   Some of the floor slabs remained, so the routing of under slab conduits was less than ideal.  ECI also was contracted to complete the Tenant Spaces including Peoples Bank, Community Space and "The Backstage Café".   

ECI is one of the most recognized Merit Shop Electrical and Specialty Service Contractors because of their commitment to excellence, leadership and customer service. These are essential qualities to effectively manage the numerous multi-million dollar contracts they have successfully completed.  ECI is dedicated to providing professional assistance in comprehensive pre-construction planning, coordination and project management with consideration of critical time schedules and budgets. They are qualified and equipped to handle the challenges and complexities of any size job.