Baker Student Center – Ohio University

This 292,000 square foot student center serves as a link between the upper and lower campus areas of the University. In addition to providing a gathering place for students, faculty and staff, the building houses meeting and conference spaces; a coffee house/café; a dining facility that seats up to 400 people; a large ballroom; a theater/auditorium; student association and campus organization offices; a gift shop; a game room; two art galleries and a parking garage.

The exterior of the building reflects the “Georgian” architecture present throughout the campus and is composed of a blend of brick and stone with numerous balconies, windows and arched entrance ways. Other design elements include an entry plaza with an arrival/drop off area for visitors, and green space which serves as an extension of Emeriti Park.

“Ordinarily, I would hesitate to provide a recommendation for a company with whom we have formed a new association. However, in this case, I would like to offer some initial assessments. … If early performance is an indicator, I hope this will not be the last opportunity we have to work together. … The firm and its management team have demonstrated a high level of professionalism and adherence to our standards of quality as well as to our schedule and budget. I am truly impressed with the organization, their ability to grasp the intricacies of the job and manage a complex project. In my position … I have worked with many general contractors over the years, and I would rank Smoot Construction Company at the top of the list and find them to be an outstanding and dedicated group of construction professionals.”

– John K. Kotowski,  Asst. Vice President, Facilities Planning and Construction | Ohio University