On February 28th, 2025, the Master Builders’ Association of Western Pennsylvania (MBA) published their 2024 Building Excellence Awards where WMF’s work on Erie Hall at Penn State Behrend was awarded the “2024 New Construction Commercial Building Excellence Award.” WMF is honored to receive this award; with this recognition, we can continue to celebrate excellence in architectural design, innovation, and construction which highlights our commitment to creating inspiring and functional spaces for the academic community.
About the Master Builders’ Association and the New Construction Award
Representing the region’s most respected commercial builders, the MBA of Western Pennsylvania has been a leading advocate for excellence in construction since 1886. The New Construction Award is given annually to projects that exemplify superior craftsmanship, problem-solving, and design innovation. WMF’s work on Erie Hall was recognized for its thoughtful approach to new construction, enhancing both the campus and student experience.
WMF’s Role in Erie Hall’s Transformation
Collaborating with Sasaki Associates, Inc., WMF designed a cutting-edge facility that blends wellness, recreation, and academics into a cohesive environment.
“This project involved constructing a 53,000 square foot LEED Silver Certified facility to replace an outdated 26,000 square foot building. Challenges limited size, high traffic, and restricted laydown space. The team worked closely with the university to overcome significant challenges including schedule impacts due to the pandemic affecting material delivery and labor availability. The building emphasized a high-quality, water- and air-tight building, and an OSHA Partnership fostered a safe work environment.” – George Ehringer
Building Features:
- State-of-the-art fitness and recreation spaces, promoting student well-being and providing options for exercise on campus
- Personal Counseling offices, uniting mental and physical health services with wellness programs in a single, integrated space
- Sustainable design elements, aligned with Penn State Behrend’s commitment to environmental responsibility and obtaining LEED Silver Certification
Erie Hall is more than just a building—it’s a dynamic space where students can connect, recharge, and thrive. Our team at WMF worked closely with Penn State Behrend to ensure the facility meets the evolving needs of students while seamlessly integrating into the campus landscape.
Setting a New Standard for Campus Design
Winning the MBA New Construction Award affirms WMF’s dedication to architectural excellence and impactful design. Erie Hall stands as a testament to how thoughtful architecture can shape student experiences and foster community engagement through the creation of such intentional spaces.
