The Union Starbucks is getting a makeover.

The Starbucks franchise requires a “refresh” of its stores every five or six years, and this will be the first for the Union store.

New equipment, lighting, furniture and laptop workstations will be ready for summer semester, said project manager Barry Quattromani.

“It’s always anticipated when you do a renovation that you’ll gain more observation, notoriety and market presence,” he said. “This will add some curb appeal.”

Construction will likely begin the week following spring commencement and be finished in about two weeks, Quattromani said.

The project will cost Dining Services $150,000.

“Once we get in touch with Stalwart Contractors and we’re given complete access, we’ll turn this thing around in the wink of an eye,” Quattromani said. “All you have to do is look at the lines in the morning and you know this is going to have a major effect on a lot of people every day.”

Dining Services Director Michael Paulus said renovation goals are improving comfort, technology, speed of service and sustainability.

“We had about a year to plan and we wanted to take the opportunity to challenge Starbucks for something unique,” he said. “We’re looking at a green theme with recycled materials like Ohio barn wood. We’re also adding artwork and wall collages that reflect 100 years of BGSU.”

Design changes will make line queuing more efficient and cure a misstep in the Americans with Disabilities Act compliance by lowering the drink counter to make it wheelchair accessible, Paulus said.

New espresso machines, ceiling fans and soft seating will be added as well.

“It’s contractually required, but we’re looking at it as an opportunity,” Paulus said. “It really does need to be done. People get bored, and we have to be able to capture innovation, new concepts, new tastes and new trends.”

Some students said the remodeling is unnecessary and Dining Services’ money should be spent in other ways.

“I think it’s ridiculous that they require remodeling so often,” said freshman Colene Knaub, who visits the Union Starbucks twice a week. “If it isn’t broke, don’t fix it. It seems like a lot of franchises like to outlandishly spend money to try and impress people, but it’s not practical.”

Junior Heather Beltz, however, said she is eagerly anticipating the changes, especially the new laptop workstations, where she plans to do her homework.

“I come here every day, so I was really excited when I saw the design renderings out front,” she said. “We’re getting new BG1 Cards, new dorms, new dining halls and now Starbucks is being renovated — it’s going to be fun to be a senior next year.”