BALTIMORE, MD – Skanska, a leading global development and construction firm, has reached a pivotal milestone in its extensive renovation of the Milton S. Eisenhower (MSE) Library at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, MD. With the demolition phase complete, the project has transitioned into the reconstruction phase to modernize the university's flagship library into an advanced innovative learning hub.
“It is an honor to partner with Johns Hopkins University in reimagining its iconic MSE library for the 21st century,” said Mark Balling, executive vice president of Skanska USA Building’s Mid-Atlantic region. “We’re proud of the hard work and dedication of our project team and trade partners on this complex project, and the work to date is a true reflection of their effort to deliver a best-in-class renovation.”
Designed by Perkins Eastman, the 183,746-square-foot library, which has four levels below grade, is being transformed. When completed, MSE will feature a two-story reading room, a signature wishbone staircase, and a glass roof that brings daylight to the building’s interior. The accessible renovation will feature a reimagined grand entrance from "The Beach" side of the building for universal access.
The project will also provide expanded spaces for collaborative study, specialized learning labs, and exhibition areas. The first major renovation to follow Johns Hopkins' High-Performance and Healthy Buildings Guidelines, the project will achieve LEED Gold certification and position the building for net-zero readiness.
Skanska commemorated the start of reconstruction with a “Slab on Grade” celebration, which represents the placement of the first major structural element of the rebuilding phase and the start of vertical construction. Work began in Summer 2024 with completion expected in Fall 2026.
A rendering of the project and photos of construction can be found here, credit goes to Skanska.