A fresh chapter is opening at UF’s Horse Teaching Unit (HTU). The new multipurpose building, scheduled for completion in early 2026, will provide modern living, learning, and working spaces for students and staff right on the Wall Farm property, just south of the main campus.
Building features
Replacing an aging residence that accommodated only three students, the new multi-purpose building offers six bedrooms, three bathrooms, and shared spaces including a living room, dining room, and kitchen. On the professional side, it also features an office for HTU staff, a seminar room for lectures and presentations, and a break room – creating a welcoming environment that brings students and staff together under one roof.
Architectural highlights include a standing seam metal roof, energy-efficient spray foam insulation, and spacious common areas designed for both comfort and collaboration. As part of the project, sitewide data connectivity was also upgraded, ensuring students and staff have the tools they need to succeed.
Location, location, location
I visited the construction site twice, and each time I was deeply impressed – not only by the building itself, but also by its remarkable location. The residence is situated just steps away from the Horse Teaching Arena, as well as a small lake surrounded by beautiful, well-maintained greenery. Adding to the charm of the area are the nearby pastures, where a few grazing horses can usually be seen. Who wouldn’t want to learn and work in such a beautiful setting?
FPO Cooperation with the Horse Teaching Unit
Facilities Planning and Operations worked closely with the Horse Teaching Unit to accommodate all of their needs. I asked Joel McQuagge, Faculty Supervisor of the UF Horse Teaching Unit and Equine Science Center, what he values most about his collaboration with FPO:
“The communication and teamwork between our user group, IFAS Facilities, and the construction team. IFAS FPO has truly made our HTU Multipurpose Building an outstanding project. Throughout the construction process, I always felt we were kept in the loop on decisions. IFAS Facilities selected a great contractor, managed the project very well, and we now have a valuable addition to our teaching, research, and extension missions.”
When asked if there was anything he would like to highlight about his experience working with FPO that could be helpful for other units, McQuagge emphasized three key takeaways:
- Develop a plan that clearly meets your unit’s needs
- Utilize a realistic budget
- Communicate effectively
Challenges and Leadership Behind The Project
Construction began in December 2024, with completion originally planned for November 2025. As the work progressed, the team encountered several challenges that required thoughtful solutions – something not uncommon for projects of this scale. Among the first hurdles was designing a suitable septic system, followed by drainage issues around the building. The team also held extensive discussions with Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) regarding the kitchen stove to ensure ADA compliance for the residential space.
In the operations area of the building, questions arose about whether a fire suppression system was required for the break room range. After reviewing how the space would be used, the design and construction teams worked closely with EHS and determined that a fire suppression hood was not necessary.
While each of these challenges was successfully resolved, addressing them did extend the project’s original timeline. Throughout the process, Project Manager David Hamm made every effort to ensure that each issue was addressed thoroughly and appropriately, helping guide the project toward successful resolution. Construction is now scheduled for completion in early 2026.
Guided by Sean Mountain, former Associate Director of Construction and Planning, and later carried forward by David Hamm, FPO Project Manager, this project underscores the impact of FPO’s work – transforming ideas into facilities that make a lasting difference for students, faculty, and the UF/IFAS mission.
3
