Market: Education

Microbiology & Physics Labs Renovation Timed for Summer

At Widener University, the Microbiology & Physics Labs Renovation modernized Rooms 336 and 337 in Kirkbride Hall. This 2,966-square-foot higher education science lab renovation took place in Chester, Pennsylvania, during a three-month summer blitz. That schedule carried one clear academic deadline: finish before students returned in fall. Within that short window, Warfel updated two existing science spaces for advanced programs, modern equipment, and deeper hands-on learning. Because the work stayed tied to Widener’s academic calendar, compact rooms became more useful labs for daily student use.

Kirkbride Hall Labs with a Clear Academic Deadline

The project stayed focused on Rooms 336 and 337, which helped keep planning direct and practical. Since the work happened during summer break, each activity needed to connect cleanly with the next. Room preparation, casework, cabinet installation, and finish work all mattered to the same deadline. That sequencing gave the renovation a steady path without turning the compact scope into scattered work. It also kept attention on the students returning to the labs in fall.

Microbiology & Physics Labs for Advanced Programs

The new Microbiology & Physics Labs give Widener’s advanced programs a dedicated home for modern equipment. In these rooms, students can work in spaces better matched to microbiology and physics instruction. Because the footprint stayed compact, each part of the rooms needed to serve daily lab use. The renovation made two existing science spaces more useful for teaching, hands-on learning, and technical study. That practical focus gives the project value without overstating the scope.

Self-Performed Casework for Schedule Certainty

Warfel’s Construction Services self-performed the casework and cabinet installation, which helped protect the three-month schedule. This work mattered because casework and cabinets shape how lab equipment and work area’s function. By carrying that scope directly, Warfel kept a key part of the renovation close to daily field coordination. The approach helped align speed, quality, and completion before students returned in fall. For a short academic window, that level of control made the process more dependable.

Ready Before Students Returned

The completed renovation gave Widener University modernized science rooms inside Kirkbride Hall. It brought updated equipment, self-performed casework, cabinets, and clearer lab function into two existing rooms. More importantly, the work answered a real higher education construction need: improve science labs within a limited summer window. For Widener, the summer blitz created stronger space for advanced programs while respecting the academic calendar.

Wonder Academy Mulberry Street Revitalization for Early Learning

The Wonder Academy Mulberry Street Revitalization gave Water Street Mission’s early childhood program its first permanent home. In Lancaster, Pennsylvania, the 18,685-square-foot renovation transformed an 1800s former school building over 10 months. From the start, the work carried added responsibility because the building needed both care and modernization. The project respected the existing structure while creating a safe, reliable setting for educators and young learners. That balance made the renovation a meaningful example of historic school renewal for early childhood education.

Negotiated Design-Build with Early Planning

The project used a negotiated design-build approach that brought Warfel Construction’s in-house Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) team in early. The architect also joined the process early, helping design, estimating, and constructability move together. During nearly a year of preconstruction, the team worked through three estimating rounds as the design evolved. That process gave Water Street Mission time to shape the project while keeping cost and scope visible. It also helped practical decisions stay connected to the building’s existing conditions.

Wonder Academy Mulberry Street Elevator Coordination

One of the most complex challenges involved adding an elevator inside the existing building. For the Wonder Academy Mulberry Street project, the team worked within the original footprint instead of expanding the site. That choice helped the project qualify for a minor stormwater plan rather than a major land development submission. As a result, the approach significantly reduced permitting time while still addressing accessibility needs. Achieving that required thoughtful structural coordination and a conservative approach to new steel.

Historic School Renovation with Modern Function

The 1800s former school building needed modern function without losing the value of its existing structure. During preconstruction, the team studied how the elevator, structure, permitting path, and classroom needs could work together. Because the solution stayed inside the original footprint, planning had to be careful before field work advanced. That coordination helped the renovation move toward a permanent early learning home without unnecessary site expansion.

A Permanent Home for Wonder Academy

The completed Wonder Academy Mulberry Street Revitalization now serves children, families, and educators in Lancaster. Warfel’s services helped deliver a modernized early childhood education center within a former school building. Just as important, the work reflects partnership with Water Street Mission and a careful response to project constraints. The finished center gives Wonder Academy a permanent home built around safety, learning, and long-term community value.

Multimedia Learning Center Designed for Creative Learning

The Dolores (Kirsch) Smith ‘65 Multimedia Learning Center transformed Lancaster Catholic High School’s existing library in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Over three summer months, the 18,685-square-foot renovation reworked twentieth-century construction for study, design, and media production. The new layout kept a smaller traditional library with a student study area. It also added a digital illustration lab, a 3D design computer lab, and a state-of-the-art broadcasting studio. Because students were on break, Warfel could complete concentrated renovation work within a summer schedule.

Library Renovation Within an Existing Academic Wing

The project did more than refresh an older library. It changed how the space could serve students throughout the school day. Quiet study, computer-based design, digital art, and broadcasting now sit within the same renovated area. As a result, students can move from research to production without leaving the center. That connection keeps the library’s familiar academic role while adding tools for newer disciplines.

Multimedia Learning Center Technology Spaces

The Multimedia Learning Center includes labs tied directly to media, design, and digital technology. In the digital illustration lab, students have space for art and graphic design work. Meanwhile, the 3D design computer lab adds another setting for computer-based creation and technical assignments. The broadcasting studio gives media production its own dedicated room, rather than a shared or temporary setup. Together, these spaces help students engage more deeply with learning connected to higher education and professional environments.

Building Systems and Summer Execution

The renovation also addressed building systems within the twentieth-century construction. Through Warfel’s Construction Services, crews coordinated sprinkler upgrades and new HVAC alongside the library and lab work. Air conditioning became one of the most noticeable improvements, giving students and staff a cooler space for daily use. Because the library and computer labs felt more comfortable, students wanted to gather there during breaks and free periods.

A Campus Space Students Could See Taking Shape

Although construction happened during summer break, the school community still stayed connected to the project. Student and staff visits gave people a chance to see the center before it reopened. That detail made the renovation feel more personal to the students who would soon use it. The completed Multimedia Learning Center built by Warfel brings study space, digital illustration, 3D design, broadcasting, air conditioning, and gathering areas into one renewed library setting. For Lancaster Catholic High School, the project turned an outdated library into a more comfortable place for learning, creative work, and everyday student use.

Overview of the STEM Innovation Center Renovation

The STEM Innovation Center Renovation at Lancaster Catholic High School in Lancaster, Pennsylvania marked the initial construction phase within the school’s overall renovation master plan. The project took place within Reilly Hall, a three-story structure totaling 168,000 square feet. Warfel’s general construction services managed demolition and reconstruction activities within the existing building while maintaining alignment with the broader renovation effort. The work transformed second-floor areas into updated educational spaces dedicated to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics instruction.

Interior Demolition and Reconstruction

Within the STEM Innovation Center Renovation, crews completed a full demolition and rebuild of the second floor within Reilly Hall. The work renovation prepared existing classrooms, bathrooms, and support rooms for reconstruction activities throughout the space. Reconstruction activities reorganized the second-floor layout to incorporate updated classrooms and educational spaces throughout the renovated area. This process connected demolition and rebuilding activities throughout the renovation while maintaining continuity across the floor plan.

Educational Spaces in the STEM Innovation Center Renovation

The renovation established a dedicated science, technology, engineering, and mathematics innovation center within Reilly Hall. The updated second floor incorporates reconstructed classrooms, renovated bathroom areas, and updated instructional spaces throughout the layout. At the same time, the redesigned floor plan connected educational areas within a cohesive environment while integrating the updated innovation center throughout the renovated space.

Construction Timeline and Project Completion

Warfel’s general construction services managed demolition, reconstruction, and renovation activities throughout the thirteen-week construction duration. From the outset, the team sequenced work throughout the second floor while maintaining progress within the active school environment. The accelerated construction schedule required consistent progress throughout each phase of the renovation process while maintaining alignment between demolition, rebuilding, and final interior work. The project team completed the renovation and obtained a certificate of occupancy from Manheim Township ahead of the original schedule.

Haupert Union Building Expansion Overview

The HUB expansion at Moravian University builds on a long-standing center for student life. Originally constructed in 1962, the facility served students for many years, but as the campus grew, the need for updated and expanded spaces became clear. This expansion enhances the student experience through thoughtful improvements and carefully planned additions, with Warfel supporting the effort through careful coordination, maintained access, and continuity throughout construction.

Enhancing Student Life Through the HUB Expansion

The HUB expansion introduces updated spaces that support both academic and social engagement. These include new study areas, gathering spaces, and improved dining facilities for daily campus use. In addition, the project provides a health and wellness center with counseling services for students. Dedicated areas for career engagement and exploration also support student development and future planning.

On the fourth floor, the HUB expansion adds flexible spaces designed for collaboration and events. This level includes a boardroom, conference center, and multiple breakout rooms. Catering support areas help accommodate campus functions and gatherings. An outdoor terrace extends these spaces and offers views overlooking Makuvek Field.

Maintaining Campus Operations During the HUB Expansion

Maintaining access to essential student services remained a priority throughout the HUB expansion. The existing building stayed active while surrounded on three sides by construction. Because of this, careful planning and clear communication guided each phase of the work.

Construction activities were coordinated to reduce disruption while supporting daily campus operations. Students and faculty continued to access dining, meeting areas, and services without major interruption. As a result, the campus experience remained consistent while improvements progressed.

A Thoughtful Approach to Campus Improvement

The HUB expansion reflects a balance between growth and continuity for Moravian University. Each update supports evolving student needs while respecting the building’s role on campus. Through coordination and attention to detail, the project enhances both function and experience.

The result is a renewed campus resource offering flexible, supportive spaces. These updates align with the university’s goals and continue to serve students now and in the future.

Historic Campus Context

These residences sit within the Crum Woods on Swarthmore College’s historic campus. Built in 1946, the buildings originally served as faculty housing. For more than 75 years, they supported daily campus life. Over time, limited updates left systems aging and layouts outdated.

As student housing needs increased, the college identified a new opportunity for these buildings. A campus housing renovation offered a way to reuse existing structures responsibly. The project required careful balance between preservation and modernization. The team approached the work with respect for both history and future use.

The college established a firm goal for student occupancy by fall 2025. That goal shaped design decisions and construction planning. Safety, comfort, and code compliance guided every phase of the project.

Scope of the Campus Housing Renovation

Warfel Construction led the campus housing renovation from November 2024 through June 2025. The team addressed both building upgrades and site improvements. Crews upgraded underground utilities to support long-term performance and reliability.

New paving and pedestrian pathways improved accessibility and campus circulation. Exterior repairs strengthened building envelopes and addressed years of weather exposure. The team modernized building systems to meet current standards. Each improvement focused on durability and long-term value.

The renovation team worked carefully within the wooded campus setting. Thoughtful sequencing minimized disruption to nearby academic areas. The work respected both the site and its surroundings.

Interior Transformation

Interior spaces required intentional redesign to support student living. Original layouts no longer met modern residential needs. Designers reconfigured floor plans to improve flow and usability. Updated layouts now support shared living and personal space.

New finishes brightened interiors and created welcoming environments. The team selected materials for durability and ease of maintenance. Modern fixtures improved comfort, lighting, and daily functionality. System upgrades enhanced efficiency and overall building performance.

Accessibility improvements were integrated throughout the interiors. The team met current standards while preserving historic character. The campus housing renovation successfully connected past design with present needs.

Project Completion and Impact

Strong coordination helped the team maintain steady progress. Clear communication supported collaboration across all trades. The project reached completion on schedule for the fall semester. Students gained additional on-campus housing without delays.

The completed campus housing renovation reflects thoughtful planning and skilled craftsmanship. These historic residences now support modern student life. The project strengthens the campus experience for future generations. It also highlights the value of reinvesting in existing campus buildings.

Educational Child Care Center Purpose-Built for Early Learning

Built from the ground up, this educational childcare center was developed for Kiddie Academy to support infants, toddlers, early preschool, preschool, and pre-kindergarten children. This design-build facility in Centerville, Pennsylvania, is an 11,329-square-foot space that was designed with the specific needs of early childhood education in mind—blending function, safety, and flexibility.

Educational Child Care Center Design-Build Delivery

Led by Rick Carter, Director of Virtual Design & Construction (VDC), Warfel’s team partnered closely with the franchisee to deliver a true one-stop solution. Our in-house VDC experts fully designed the building to meet Kiddie Academy’s brand and operational standards.

The completed facility features a full commercial kitchen, adaptable classroom layouts, and a versatile outdoor playground with a basketball court. Each classroom includes a consistent layout with restrooms, cubbies, cot closets, and direct access to the play area—ensuring efficiency and ease of use for staff and students alike.

Laying the Groundwork for Success

Early in planning, Warfel helped the client pivot from an unsuccessful lease opportunity to securing a greenfield site that better met their long-term needs. That proactive approach helped set the stage for a smooth, streamlined build.

Solving Challenges with Speed and Accountability

During excavation, the team uncovered unsuitable soils and buried debris, including remnants of a former structure. Later, sustained rainfall during roof installation led to moisture buildup and potential mold concerns. Warfel acted swiftly sealing trusses, testing roof materials, and implementing thorough mitigation strategies to protect the building’s integrity and safety.

Delivering on Trust—Start to Finish

Warfel completed the Kiddie Academy project in approximately seven months. The result reflects our commitment to collaboration, transparency, and proactive problem-solving—even when faced with unforeseen challenges.

More than a successful build, this project represents a lasting partnership. It embodies Warfel’s Clients for Life mission and our dedication to delivering value-driven, full-service solutions in the education sector.

Overview of Academic Building Addition

The Academic Building Addition & Renovations project helped Delaware Valley Friends School (DV Friends) reshape its Paoli campus around access, clarity, and welcome. New front and rear entry vestibules, exterior ramps, and canopies improved how students, staff, and visitors arrive. Warfel also constructed a two-story, 8,130-square-foot building with additional classrooms and expanded administrative space. About 1,975 square feet of interior renovations connected the addition to the existing school. Together, the work improved campus access while supporting the school community’s growing needs.

Academic Building Addition Campus Entry

The Academic Building Addition created a new central reception area where the school’s two buildings meet. Visitors now pass through this shared point, whether they enter from the front or rear. That change gave the campus a clearer sense of arrival and simplified daily movement through the school. Just as important, the new design made the building fully accessible for the first time in its history. It also helped create a more welcoming experience for the people using the campus each day.

Learning Spaces and Building Connections

The new two-story building gave DV Friends added room for learning, administration, and daily school operations. Additional classrooms supported academic needs, while expanded administrative space helped the school serve its growing community. Meanwhile, the interior renovation focused on the areas where the new addition meets the existing structure. Those connections required careful work because old and new spaces needed to function as one campus. By focusing on those transition points, the project helped the addition feel connected to the school’s existing rhythm.

Active School Construction and Summer Delivery

Construction began in April 2024 while the school remained active. Warfel used experience in occupied school environments to guide planning, safety, and coordination. The team aligned work with the academic calendar, summer camps, and sporting events to reduce disruption. During the summer, crews faced a tight three-month window before students returned. That work included building and ramp connections in the existing hallway, along with essential MEP work.

Project Completion and Campus Value

Despite the compressed summer schedule, Warfel delivered the project on time and met the school’s needs and expectations. The completed project reflects careful planning, steady coordination, and respect for daily school life. For Delaware Valley Friends School, the work created a more accessible and welcoming campus entry. It also added classroom and administrative space that supports the school community now and into the future.

IHM Center for Innovation Built for Student Discovery

The IHM Center for Innovation and Creativity transformed existing academic space at Bishop Shanahan High School in Downingtown, Pennsylvania. Over six months, the renovation reworked the Media Center, Computer Resource Lab, and part of the academic wing. The 12,400-square-foot center introduced cutting-edge technology labs, modern presentation areas, and dynamic collaboration zones. The design enhances the school curriculum and gives students more ways to engage deeply with their studies. Instead of adding isolated upgrades, the project created a connected academic setting for curiosity, creativity, and hands-on exploration.

IHM Center for Innovation Learning Spaces

Within the IHM Center for Innovation, students can move between technology labs, presentation areas, and collaboration zones with purpose. The renovation turned familiar school spaces into places where instruction, project work, and discussion sit close together. Because the work touched existing school areas, the center feels connected to daily school life. New resources now sit inside a campus rhythm students already understand. It gives teachers and students a setting for both structured learning and open exploration.

Technology Labs for Creative Exploration

The cutting-edge labs give students room to explore physics, engineering, mathematics, graphic design, robotics, and art. That range matters because each subject asks students to think, test, build, present, and create in different ways. Modern presentation areas give students space to explain ideas and share their work with others. Meanwhile, collaboration zones offer room for groups to think through projects together. The result is a learning environment that feels active without feeling scattered.

Renovating Existing Academic Space

The project’s strength came from transforming spaces the school already knew. Rather than pushing innovation into a detached area, the renovation placed new resources within the existing academic footprint. That choice helped the center feel like part of Bishop Shanahan’s rhythm from the beginning. Over the six-month schedule, the work created new academic value while keeping the focus on students and curriculum.

Building Space for Academic Growth

Warfel helped deliver a renovation centered on student discovery, creative work, and meaningful curriculum use. The completed center gives Bishop Shanahan High School technology labs, presentation areas, and collaboration zones in one academic setting. More importantly, it gives students space to explore their passions across science, technology, design, robotics, mathematics, and art. For the school, the project adds a lasting learning resource shaped around curiosity, confidence, and growth.