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2.3.3 Corridors and Lobbies

Corridors and Lobbies

Corridor and Lobby renovations may be required as part of another renovation project such as an MEP renovation, an ADA upgrade, or an internal door replacement project. Depending on the scope of work for the entire project, not all sections of a building or all floors of the building will be renovated at the same time. Unless a specific project entails a total renovation and reconfiguration of spaces, it is unlikely that many of the features outlined for new construction can be incorporated into a renovation project (see more specific discussions below). For minor reconfigurations, it is likely more cost effective and aesthetically beneficial to match the existing adjacent construction. The most practical areas to install materials reflecting new construction standards may include doors, ceilings, guardrails and signs. For all new and renovated Corridors and Lobbies, follow the New Construction Guidelines: Volume 3, Chapter 2.2.1 Vestibules and Lobbies and Chapter 2.2.3 Corridors.

Additional considerations for existing corridor and lobby renovation shall include but are not be limited to:

Floors

Materials: Corridors and Lobbies may include terrazzo, vinyl composition tile, hardwood or a combination of materials.

  • Terrazzo: When feasible, it can be considered for repair or replacement as budget allows. When terrazzo is repaired, a test area shall be provided to determine the matrix used for the patches
  • Vinyl Composition Tile: When asbestos tile is identified, replace with resilient floor tile
  • Hardwood: When repaired or refinished, all patching shall match the appearance of the existing floor

Expansion Joints: Flooring renovations shall be coordinated with existing building expansion joint locations to accommodate building movements.

Finishes: Flooring materials colors and patterns are subject to CPS design standards and approval

Walls

Materials: Corridors and Lobbies may include gypsum board, plaster, painted CMU, structural glazed facing tile (1950’s-60’ vintage), or ground faced block (1990’s vintage).

  • Minor Patching and Repairs: Shall match the existing adjacent materials and construction.
  • Major/Total Renovations: Utilize materials and construction, appropriate and within budget, to retain the character of the original building. When corridor or classroom demising walls are moved or modified, confirm that the fire and acoustic ratings are maintained and continuous to the underside of the existing structure.
  • Signs: Provide ADA compliant signs if they do not exist

Ceilings

Materials: Ceilings may include gypsum board, plaster or suspended ceilings. Coordinate materials and quantities of all MEP/FP related components and/or structural work with existing adjacent construction. Perform non-destructive investigations of the interstitial space above the ceilings whenever possible to verify the overall construction makeup and to further understand existing conditions and fire rated construction. 

  • Plaster Ceilings: Commonly found in older buildings with surface mounted lighting. When the existing plaster ceiling is removed or repaired, confirm that the fire and acoustic ratings are maintained and continuous.
  • Suspended Ceilings: Commonly found with integral lighting and fire protection. Consideration for complete versus partial replacement shall be based on the following factors: 
    • Condition of the tiles and extent of damage. Replace entire field of tiles when damage exceeds 25%
    • Condition of the grid and extent of damage. May be painted or replaced depending on condition
  • False Ceilings/Soffit Assemblies: May be existing to be repaired or new as required to hide new or existing ductwork and conduit associated with MEP scope. Care shall be taken to maximize the ceiling height and provide a means of detailing which is sympathetic to historical design features. Confirm that the fire and acoustic ratings are maintained and continuous. If scope is limited and no false ceiling/soffit assembly is provided, it is permissible to run exposed wire mold with CPS approval.

Lockers: Typically exist in most high schools, unless the building was not originally constructed for school use. Elementary schools may or may not contain lockers. Some elementary schools provide coat hooks within the classrooms. If accommodations for books and coats are already available within a classroom, new lockers may not be required. Existing lockers and base assemblies shall be evaluated for condition, accessibility and quantity, 

  • Paint/Refurbish: Paint shall be electromagnetic coating. Graffiti scope is typically not included unless budget permits.
  • Replacement: Locker replacement is not required unless lockers are in very poor condition or if there is a total renovation of the school. May include full or partial replacement.
  • Accessibility: The lockers shall meet accessibility requirements, including a minimum of 5% of ADA compliant lockers and adjustments to shelf heights and coat hooks. Accessible lockers should be distributed throughout the area to the extent possible, but they must be located on an accessible route and must have clear floor space for forward or side approach. 

Drinking Fountains: Replacement of drinking fountains shall be reviewed holistically on each floor or space to address all height requirements and provide cane detection for protruding objects. For all new and renovated Drinking Fountains, refer to the New Construction guidelines: Volume 3, Chapter 2.5 Toilet Rooms -  Drinking Fountains/Bottle Fillers.

  • Water Quality: Confirm drinking fountains have been tested for lead and meet CPS standards.
  • Wall Surrounding: The drinking fountain’s back surface shall be solid surface or stainless steel back plate. Provide a new lintel if a niche is provided in an existing masonry wall. Drinking fountains must be supported directly by a concealed carrier and piping shall be concealed.
  • Accessibility: If drinking fountains are replaced, they shall be accessible.