BRICKER HALL RESTORATION
Location: Columbus, Ohio
Project Type: Historical Restoration
Role: Electrical Contractor
General Contractor: Robertson
Owner: The Ohio State University
Contract: $2,400,000
Completion: 2026
Opened in 1924, Bricker Hall has evolved over its century of use, housing the registrar’s office, the Faculty Club and other university functions. In 1983, the building was renamed for John Bricker, a former U.S. senator and Ohio governor with deep ties to Ohio State.
As part of a three-story, 73,486-square-foot renovation, Claypool Electric supported a multi-floor electrical scope that extended well beyond the historic laylight ceiling. The project included new electrical service, a new 1,600-amp switchboard, fire alarm system upgrades, access control systems and a new fiber backbone with updated technology rooms throughout the building.
The 15-month renovation required careful coordination within an active university environment.
Claypool’s work centered on uncovering the ceiling, restoring its architectural elements and reintroducing light in a way that respected the building’s original design. The goal was not to modernize the space visually, but to let the architecture work the way it was meant to again.
Today, Bricker Hall is being reenergized for continued academic use, with historic features once hidden now visible and active again.
Challenges
Working within an active historic university building required careful planning and coordination. The Claypool team navigated several complex challenges throughout the project, including:
- Completing restoration work inside an existing historic structure while preserving original architectural elements.
- Removing, cataloging and storing decorative ceiling panels to ensure accurate restoration and reinstallation.
- Routing conduit and infrastructure through basement and lower levels without disturbing existing architecture.
- Coordinating closely with abatement crews to maintain safety while keeping work moving.
- Designing and installing lighting that simulates natural daylight without drawing attention to modern technology.
Outcome
Claypool installed 672 light fixtures throughout the building, including 189 fixtures designed to simulate daylight within the restored laylight ceiling. Historic architectural elements were integrated into modern LED fixtures through a prefabrication process completed in Claypool’s shop, allowing for precision, testing and quality control before installation.
The restored ceiling brings new light and openness back to Bricker Hall, revealing architectural details that had not been visible for decades. The space now reflects its original character while functioning for modern use.
The project highlights Claypool’s experience working in historic environments where patience, planning and attention to detail matter at every step.
Highlights
- 672 light fixtures installed
- New 1,600-amp switchboard
- Fire alarm system upgrades
- New access control systems
- New fiber backbone and technology rooms
- Three-story historic renovation
- 15-month project duration
672
lighting fixtures
73,486
square feet renovated
15
month renovation