The Master Builders’ Association (MBA) recently hosted its Building Excellence Awards, a celebration that recognizes “outstanding achievement and exceptional craftsmanship” in regional projects, during their annual Construction Industry Evening of Excellence. Held at Acrisure Stadium, Carnegie Mellon University’s Highmark Center for Health, Wellness and Athletics was the winner in the New Construction Over $50 Million category.

While primarily new construction, the Highmark Center includes the integration and reuse of 24,000 GSF of the historic Skibo Gymnasium, originally designed by architect Henry Hornbostel in 1924. Faced with significant site-related challenges––including a shallow rock ledge under the site, a restricted height limit, and aging existing structures––the design and construction team, along with members of CMU’s Campus Design and Facility Development, worked in tandem to address these obstacles and deliver a comprehensive and welcoming facility for the University’s students.

The Highmark Center is a meaningful response to the critical need to advance health and wellness support for students on campus. The project integrates CMU’s University Health Services, Counseling and Psychological Services, Wellness Initiatives, Religious and Spiritual Life Initiatives, and Athletics, ensuring students have access to the support they need to thrive. The project caps a 15-year planning process that brought together stakeholders from across the university.

Congratulations to our clients, Carnegie Mellon University, and construction team led by Mascaro Construction with photography by Nic Lehoux and Ed Massery.