A New Era of Comfort for Akin Hall

Focus Areas: Akin Hall

Construction Starts: Summer 2026

Anticipated Completion: 8/28/2026

Modern systems. Stronger shelter. Built for the next 70 years.

Big changes are happening—both behind the walls and overhead—at Akin Hall. This project brings together two major upgrades that work hand-in-hand to improve comfort, efficiency, and resilience for everyone who studies, works, and lives here.

Since the 1950s, Akin Hall has relied on its original steam heating system and a long-serving roof assembly. Both have done their jobs well for decades. Now, they’re being comprehensively renewed with modern solutions designed to meet today’s performance standards and tomorrow’s climate goals at Lewis & Clark College.

Inside the Walls: A Complete Mechanical Transformation

The original steam infrastructure—pipes, coils, and all—is being fully retired and replaced with a high-efficiency, all-electric system.

• All original steam piping and room coils decommissioned 
• Modern Mitsubishi control system for smarter temperature and airflow management
• Electric heat pumps providing new heat to the building
• Cooling added for the first time using the same efficient heat pump technology

This means more consistent temperatures, quieter operation, improved air quality, and a major reduction in energy use and emissions leading to a smaller carbon footprint.

Overhead: A Stronger Roof for the Future

At the same time, Akin Hall’s exterior envelope is getting an additional refresh after last year’s beautiful new paint job.

• All sloped roof areas will receive new shingles
• New gutters fascia downspout connections installed throughout
• Attic spaces will be upgraded with new installation to bring the attic installation up to modern code and save energy

These upgrades protect the building from the top down—improving drainage, preventing moisture intrusion, and ensuring the structure beneath stays dry and protected for the decade to come.

Why This Matters

Together, these improvements do more than replace aging materials. They modernize how Akin Hall performs as a whole:

• Steadier indoor comfort in every season
• Better ventilation and airflow
• Reduced maintenance and improved reliability
• Lower carbon impact with fully electric systems
• A renewed exterior shell that safeguards everything inside

Akin Hall’s historic character remains. The systems supporting it are getting a 21st-century upgrade.

Most of this work stays out of sight—but the results will be easy to feel. We’ll continue sharing progress as Akin Hall is refreshed from the roof down to the mechanical core, building a smarter, cleaner, and more resilient future.