Christner + Ayers/Saint/Gross conducted a programming and conceptual design study for a combined building for the College of Optometry and the College of Nursing. We helped the university and the colleges define how a new building will support state-of-the-art teaching, enhance synergies for healthcare education, and advance the strategic goals of each college. Our concept provides a collaborative, interdisciplinary environment for research, teaching and clinical space, while maintaining the identity of each college.
Size: 221,000 sf
Status: Planning completed 2009
Associate Architect: Ayers/Saint/Gross
Our concept is organized around four principles: connect faculty with teaching, clinical and research space; connect research and clinic functions; provide ample student activity space; and make administrative functions visible within each college.
Christner's designers created a strong presence for the new facility along Natural Bridge Road with a formal façade and stately landscaping.
We oriented the building to create a south facing courtyard that includes a green roof over the outpatient clinic structure.
The first floor includes clinic space accessible from the adjacent parking. The clinic serves adults and children seeking both optical and primary care services.
We included state-of-the-art simulation labs on the second floor alongside traditional classroom space. The third and fourth floors include research labs, faculty and administrative offices, and student life space.
