James B. Dworkin Student Activities Center

Challenge

A visioning process, facilitated by the design team, created the mission statement: “The Student Activities Center will foster the creation and enhancement of programs and activities to transform the student experience and facilitate the engagement and development of the regional community.” A critical aspiration was the creation of a sustainable and “signature” building which defines and transforms the university campus, and which embraces and enhances the natural campus environment.

Solution

In collaboration with project stakeholders, a facility program and building concept was developed to meet the needs of student organizations, athletics, fitness and recreation, as well as a conference center. Articulated into two elements: student organizations/athletics/recreation to the north, and conference center/lobby to the south, the building massing produces a sense of scale compatible with the campus setting. Strong entrance identity greets the visitor, while also connecting to the student/pedestrian main street of campus. Massing, orientation and framed views integrate with, and take advantage of this beautifully landscaped and natural campus rich in world-renowned public art.

Impact

The 104,000 square foot facility opened in the summer of 2016, and serves as a focal point and center of activity for the campus, while celebrating the owner goal of creating a new architectural vocabulary complimenting the existing campus visual identity.

Video: James B. Dworkin Student Activities Center