MCRD/ERR PARRIS ISLAND, S.C. -- A group of engineers and architects swept through H&S Bn. barracks Jan. 7 - 9, analyzing the condition of floors and walls within the rooms, hallways and offices in preparation for a $1.1 million renovation project. Captain Branden Bailey, commanding officer, Service Co., said the project, which should be completed 12 to 18 months after the contract is awarded, will replace battalion flooring, light fixtures, damaged walls, vanity areas and showers, as needed.Many battalion personnel believe the renovations are both necessary and welcomed."When I first got here, there was definitely room for improvement," said Capt. Bradley Anderson, commanding officer, Headquarters Co. "These barracks were built in the '40s. Periodic Band-aids have helped, but the renovations were needed."An additional H&S Bn. project, which involves replacing the Marines' furniture, including beds, desks, dressers, rugs and armoires, will begin 120 days after Camp Lejeune Contracting awards the contract.Captain James Dewey, Depot director of property control, said that the most of the details are still unknown, except that Camp Lejeune Contracting plans to use a "whole room concept," in its design. Dewey added that the furniture, which will cost more than $500,000, is a "nicer" version of the new furniture in the Recruit Training Regiment barracks.The projects have left the battalion in an interesting situation, as they must decide whether they will wait to replace the furniture until the renovations are complete, but Dewey said they are planning to insert the furniture as soon as they can get it.Anderson said that he and Bailey asked their Marines what "they would like to see in the barracks," so the changes would accurately reflect what the Marines wanted. They wanted nicer furniture and more aesthetically pleasing living quarters, and they are going to get it."We are here to serve our country," said Anderson. "If we can die for our country, than we should have it as good as our collegiate counterparts."Anderson said that he has always encouraged his Marines to make their rooms their own by adding their own personal touch, but that these renovations have been planned for a few years and will instantly impact the morale and welfare of the Marines.Each building will probably be upgraded individually, but where the Marines will be housed during the project is still undecided, added Anderson.