Summer 2020 Project
Given the economic downturn and uncertainty resulting from the current pandemic, the House Board approached the plan for summer renovations at the House with a great deal of caution and conservatism, electing to preserve operating funds on hand until the pandemic’s impact on our Chapter, the House and our membership could be more clearly determined. As such, the Board approved only as much work as could be paid for with cash on hand, most of which came from the fundraising efforts of our Centennial Campaign Committee.
Phase 1 of the upstairs interior renovation included new flooring, electrical systems, fixtures, closet space and paint. The work covered all bedrooms, upstairs hallways, stairway landings, the balcony and back stairs. It has really brightened up the space!
Phase 2, to be done at a later date when funds are available, will include custom built-in bedroom furniture to maximize floor space
Renovations since 2009
- During the summer of 2019, the Chapter Room was converted into a much-needed Study Room to accommodate the growing Chapter, as the Chapter size has grown too large to meet in the Chapter Room. The renovation work included adding desks along the walls as well as a couch and comfy chairs for lounging.
- For the summer of 2017, the House Board replaced all of the exterior windows and exterior doors upstairs with energy efficient windows. The original screen, that gave the House its historical look, were retained after re-screening, repair, and repainting. The exterior front balcony railings were raised higher to be in accordance with city code requirements.
- The goal for the House Board in 2016 was to provide some much-needed improvements upstairs. The Chapter Room was totally gutted, windows replaced and closets eliminated or moved to provide a larger, private meeting space for the 200+ women in the Omega. In addition, the President’s bathroom on the second floor and a closet on the third floor were given up to house new laundry facilities. No more going to the basement to do laundry!
- In 2015, the House Board focused on ensuring the House remained competitive for Recruitment by completing all of the downstairs decor; purchasing new furniture and light fixtures.
- Summer of 2014 brought big visual changes to the House with the new double front door, the creation of a 2-story fireplace surround in the Big Room and the new Legacy Library (former phone/guard room). In addition to new lighting, a new paint palette of soft grey and black with pops of lime green, purple, and burnt orange was selected to create a soothing, updated look. With the help of Rowland Design of Indianapolis, the updating of the common area décor and paint palette began in the Living Room and Entryway will continue to be implemented in the House over the couple of years.
- New bedroom furniture was on the Chapter’s wish list for 2013, so all new matching beds and dressers were purchased for the 48 women living in the House. Our House Director (aka House Mother) was also thrilled with the renovation of her 50+ year old bathroom.
- Less noticeable but just as important, the focus in 2012 was on the exterior of the House. New siding, gutters, roofing and paint were completed. In addition, the wi-fi network was upgraded.
- The Chapter was thrilled in 2011 with the total renovation and redesign of the almost 60 year old communal bathrooms. Thanks to all new plumbing upstairs, no more “water on, water off” warnings were needed for those in the showers.
- The focus for 2010 was updating furniture in the common areas, replacing carpet and the creation of a beautiful new courtyard in the front of the House.
- 2009, major structural and life/safety issues were addressed with the addition of sprinkler systems throughout the House along with security cameras and lighting, the creation of a true commercial kitchen for meals and replacement of much of the plumbing downstairs. A very popular snack kitchen was added to better meet the schedules of 48 women.
Biometric Entry System
Security and safety of our members is of highest priority. We have a guard at the house every night. This is standard at UT sorority houses. In 2014, we added a biometric entry system. Rather than a code to enter the house, each member uses their fingerprint for access.