Project Snapshot 

• Type: Historic church conversion to student union  

• Size: 10,000 SF  

• Scope: Envelope strategy + hygrothermal analysis  

• Architects: Port City Architects

• Focus: Moisture risk, comfort, and operational performance  

The Situation 

A historic church was being converted into a student union, requiring upgrades to improve comfort and long-term performance. The team needed to enhance the building envelope, but without introducing moisture risks that could compromise the structure. 

The Challenge 

The project had very limited flexibility on the exterior due to historic constraints, which significantly narrowed viable solutions. At the same time, the budget was tight and the schedule compressed, leaving little room for iterative exploration. Balancing preservation requirements with performance goals required careful decision-making under pressure. 

 What We Did

• Performed detailed hygrothermal analysis of proposed envelope assemblies  

• Evaluated moisture behavior under different material configurations  

• Identified risks associated with improper vapor control placement  

• Advised the team on practical, buildable envelope strategies within constraints  

Key Insight 

• Enabled the team to move forward with confidence in envelope performance  

• Reduced risk of long-term moisture-related issues  

• Supported a solution that balanced historic preservation, budget, and performance goals  

• In constrained projects, performance is about making the right decisions within limits. This work will help ensure the building will operate comfortably and efficiently without compromising its historic character.