RSP Architects, Ltd. in association with Lake|Flato Architects - ASU Polytechnic Academic Complex, Mesa, Arizona

Tuesday, 20 October 2009 08:58

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Arizona State University's Polytechnic campus is home to more than 9,600 students pursuing degrees in professional or technological programs.

The campus is situated on more than 600 acres in the Phoenix area's fast-growing East Valley. First-time visitors to the Polytechnic campus are immediately struck by the spacious grounds, friendly people and relaxed atmosphere.

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The design transforms 16 acres of a former air force base into a dense, walkable, and shady campus. It adds five new academic buildings, more than doubling the existing academic space.

The buildings embrace shaded courtyards for exterior learning environments. The shaded exterior atriums, portals and overall site pedestrian circulation allow for diverse academic and research disciplines across the campus to interact with increased ease.

The open-air atria provide intimate seating areas while visually and spatially connecting multiple departments and disciplines.

The design integrates vertical and horizontal forms particularly around the windows in order to introduce a generous amount of daylight while lowering the heat gain from direct sun exposure. Circulation spaces such as staircases are utilized to provide shade and ventilation.
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Last August, this project was recognized by the AIA through their CAE Educational Facilities Awards, receiving the Merit Award.