The McBryde Hall 100 Auditorium, one of the most heavily used instructional auditoriums on campus, is getting a $2.8 million renovation this summer to improve accessibility, technology, seating, and acoustical performance.

Renovations to the 540-seat auditorium will begin shortly after the end of the spring semester and finish by the start of the fall semester.

McBryde Hall opened in 1971 and the auditorium was added in 1973. During the 2014-15 school year, between 2,250 and 2,500 people used the auditorium each weekday.

“Most students who have attended Virginia Tech in recent years have probably had a class in McBryde 100. It is scheduled morning, afternoon and evening and many of the auditorium’s components are showing the wear and tear of that heavy use. The McBryde 100 renovation is part of an ongoing effort to improve our teaching and learning spaces across campus,” said Ken Smith, vice provost for resource management and institutional effectiveness.

The Virginia Tech Student Experience Task Force Report issued in January 2015 recommends a comprehensive classroom renovation plan to transform learning spaces across campus. The McBryde 100 renovation was already underway as the task force completed its work.

“I was pleased to see our planning aligned with the broader vision for the student experience. I expect students and faculty alike will value the improved teaching and learning environment in McBryde 100 next fall,” Smith added.

A major component of the renovation is changing the slope of the floor to significantly improve accessibility and mobility for students and faculty. Workers will also install new seats with integrated electrical outlets and create a new, cleaner presentation surface at the front of the room.

Wood veneer ceiling and wall panels will be installed to improve the acoustic qualities of the room. Not as visible but also important is work to replace the heating and air conditioning system, lighting, and audiovisual equipment that supports the space.

“The McBryde 100 project is one of many scheduled this summer. We will have dozens of projects to improve academic and residential buildings, outside spaces, and thoroughfares around campus. It will be a busy time but will result in visible improvements when students return next fall,” said Chris Kiwus, associate vice president and chief facilities officer.

Westlake Reed Leskosky designed the renovation and MB Contractors will manage the construction.