Gonzaga University Student Center Design Competition
Gonzaga University invited national student union experts to propose and participate in a design competition for the school’s new student center. MHTN’s student life specialists envisioned a design solution that addressed campus identity, sustainability and functionality, while heightening each student’s awareness of their holistic connection to the greater world at large.
This conceptual proposal features a sculptural chapel at entry, as a reminder of the unity of heart, mind, and soul. A multi-level atrium connects all parts of the union to a whole, allowing students to see and be seen from all programs. A lower-level dining experience is punctuated by a living wall of green plantings and a large opening to the main level student lounge. The design also displays a large expanse of curtainwall to fuse together the indoor/outdoor experience. This creates social connectedness and a continuous view to intramural fields and the larger campus context.
SERVICES: Architecture and Interiors Schematic Design, Conceptual Program Translation, Cost Estimating, Design Competition Package
Design Challenge
SENSITIVE APPROACH TO EDGE OF CAMPUS NEIGHBORHOOD
Trees line a well-integrated sloping drive to a sub-surface loading dock parallel to the neighborhood street. This competition solution created a soft pedestrian street edge, hiding scheduled loading vehicles, while activating three sides of the building with curtainwall, decks, and primary entry.
Information
BY THE NUMBERS
Spokane, WA | 2012
Earth Centered
Daylighting strategy to reduce HVAC loads. Energy recovery for dedicated outdoor air systems. Living wall as bio filter and interior oxygen generator. Occupiable green roof.