architecture thesis youth center

• Apple MacBook Pro

Thesis - Space Invaders: Appropriating a Youth Centre

My thesis addresses the many issues that today’s youth face and aims to rethink the youth centre as a place that combines youth culture and archi Read More

Creative Fields

Architecture

• Youth Centre
• south africa
• johannesburg
• skateboarding
• breakdancing

No use is allowed without explicit permission from owner

The Marulas Youth Center an alternate source of recreation and educational support through cultural and community participative spaces

• Description

College of Architecture (UP Diliman)

• < Previous

Home > Colleges, Schools, and Departments > School of Architecture > School of Architecture Dissertations and Theses > Senior Theses > 53

Architecture Senior Theses

ORPHAN: Residential Educational Cultural Center for Orphaned Youth

Author(s)/Creator(s)

Valerie Rachel Herrera

Document Type

Thesis, Senior

Spring 2012

orphanage, Manhattan, residential educational facility, community

• Disciplines

Architecture

Description/Abstract

"This thesis contends that by re-conceptalizing the spatial, programmatic, and sociopolitical forces that for the basis of the orphanage typology, an architectural framework can be constructed that can instigate and facilitate new conditions of programmatic overlap between the 'urban cultural' and the 'private/secure residential'; fundamentally altering the outdated assumptions of the orphanage type in favor of a contemporary response embeds the orphanage in the city and the city in the orphanage."

Additional Information

Advisors: Randall Korman / Francisco Sanin

Note: Download in 3 parts

Recommended Citation

Herrera, Valerie Rachel, "ORPHAN: Residential Educational Cultural Center for Orphaned Youth" (2012). Architecture Senior Theses . 53. https://surface.syr.edu/architecture_theses/53

Creative Commons License

Since July 09, 2012

Included in

Architecture Commons

• Academic Units
• Dissertations and Theses

Advanced Search

• Notify me via email or RSS

Author Resources

• Open Access at Syracuse
• Contribute Material
• Suggest a New Collection

Home | About | FAQ | My Account | Accessibility Statement

Privacy Copyright SU Privacy Policy

Modern Youth Center Project | Architecture & Visualization Case Study

Gradinar Razvan

More work available on

http://graddinar.com

Fourth Year Architecture Project

Youth Center Architecture, Urban Planning &amp; Landscape design

The project involved creating a youth center on a predeďŹ ned site, situated next to the towns creek Peta. The site is near the end of the towns residential area and the start of the cityâ&amp;#x20AC;&amp;#x2122;s commercial zone and the aim was too see how we could blend the site with the surroundings, as well as our vision regarding a youth center that would attract teenagers.

Ground Floor 3d Section

Indoor fountain and vegetation for a more natural and friendly look and feel.

Theater for different plays, conferences or educational events.

Vertical shading system to provide shade as well as to block some of the outdoor distractions

Main Entrance, the hallway can be used to showcase different artwork or exhibits

Ground Floor - Plan View The building plan features a small green space in the middle, four entrances for each side and the access to the upper ďŹ&amp;#x201A;oor is done via a ramp similar to the Guggenheim. The building features the following classes dancing, painting, cooking , scupting, photography , music and a coffee shop.

First Floor - Plan View

Surrounding Area Urban planning

The urban planning phase, involved height analysis of the buildings in the area, zoning of different areas, proposals of greenery, bridges over the towns creek, bus stations, public rest rooms, parking spaces and other aspects like sidewalk enlargement, road crossings,etc.

The ďŹ rst step, involved doing a site analysis of the area which involved highlighting the building heights and also identifying the different zones that area found in the area. Afterwards this was done, the urban proposal part took place which involved proposing things such as underground parking area, bus stations, green spaces, sidewalk enlargement,e

Building site

Proposed site Landscape design

The landscape design phase, involved taking into consideration things like walking patterns, routes, points of interest from the area, local climate and providing a solution that will blend the proposed building into itâ&amp;#x20AC;&amp;#x2122;s natural surroundings.

Building Placement &amp; Concept The main building concept, came from the idea to connect the two major walking areas with a curved walking route that will offer stunning perspectives of the natural surroundings. The curved route, dictated the need to create a circular type building, and thus the idea of a snail shell like structure appeared. The building placement was set based on the following key aspects: it shouldnâ&amp;#x20AC;&amp;#x2122;t disrupt the natural walking pattern, it should offer a good focal point when viewed from a far, it shouldnâ&amp;#x20AC;&amp;#x2122;t be placed next to the sport courts due to noise pollution or the creek due to potential danger that children may face and it also should have easy car access to minimize the impact of greenery.

Get in touch: [email protected] http://graddinar.com

Academia.edu no longer supports Internet Explorer.

To browse Academia.edu and the wider internet faster and more securely, please take a few seconds to  upgrade your browser .

Enter the email address you signed up with and we'll email you a reset link.

• We're Hiring!
• Help Center

ORPHAN: Residential Educational Cultural Center for Orphaned Youth

orphanage cum oldage home

Related Papers

Pacific Historical Review

Marta Gutman

In architecture, the spaces within and outside the building must follow a particular way of arrangement commonly called spatial organization. This describes the building pattern through space. It is the process of arranging different elements in space (Pascal, 2011). The identity of any architectural precedent, is the proper definition of space to suit the users of that given space, that is, the different building typologies: institutional, industrial, housing among others … are designed specifically to suite the demands of it users. Furthermore, facilities like hospitals are meant to give spaces that are conductive for patients and staff, office building for staff of the organization, hotels for customers and staff of the hotel, schools for pupils and teachers , and orphanages to for children and staff of orphanages, this goes on and on. The architectural environments are read by their users, and therefore should reflect the institution's particular identity and values, thus, space found act as a mirror that reflect the ideas, attitude and culture of the institution (Hoffman and Erlandson, 2005) Sa’id (2008) suggests that Children’s physical movement, cognitive scanning, and social transaction in space are directly influenced by the spatial and properties of their built environment. Sebba (1994) "children physical participation with the architectural features and the environment intend to satisfy, and the experience to stay in their memory”. However, memory is a derivative of place attachment where positive emotions are have generate effective opportunities for engagement, discovery, creativity, revelation and adventure surprise, in that event, experiencing the environment is an essential, critical and irreplaceable dimension in the growth and functioning of children (Sa’id 2008, p3). Suetyuan (2003) noted that children need different spaces to express themselves, as they are more concern about their surroundings at the growing stage. Therefore, the design for children spaces must conform to their physical, social and cognitive development. Physical functioning is the motoric actions such as fluid rolling, jumping, tumbling, running, skipping; physical development is the pattern of bodily growth and maturation of children interacting with indoor, outdoor spaces and their features. Cognitive development examines systematic exchanges in children's reasoning, concept, memory and language. Social functioning includes the interaction of children with peers and adult, explores the changes in their feeling, ways of coping relationship with peers (Eldridge, 2003). Considering the aforementioned, before creating spaces for children; there is a challenge in provision of stable environment for children that avoids the institutional upbringing approach (Subbarao, 2001). However, this thesis examines the spatial organization and architectural design elements of some existing orphanage facilities in the north-central Nigeria. Nowadays, orphanages lack stimulation and experiences. Children may not have much interaction within the orphanage, which may make new experiences stressful, also, lack of visual sensory input for their environment can lead to a diagnosis of cognitive delay (Eldridge, 2003). The residential institution devoted to the care of orphan-children whose parent are deceased or otherwise unwilling to care for them called 'orphanage'(FMWA & SD, 2007) should intercede for the desires of these children. In furtherance, to enable architects in re-conceptualizing the design of orphanage, this study intends to capture the spatial structure and the architectural elements of orphanages from the time of emergence to present day. To do so, this study examines critically the term ‘spatial configuration with its constituent’, ‘architectural design element plus principles’, documentation on spatial configuration and the architectural design element of orphanages, ‘framework approach with space syntax technique’, and the ‘psychology, sociology and architecture’ amalgamation of disciplines. In view of this, through architecture, the environment may be shaped in order to become 'home' for these children to help them grow without exhibiting problems associated with the various institutional care system for orphans (Agathokleous, 2011). Freundlinch (2004) stresses that orphanages hold a well-organized place in the history of caring for children, unfortunately, very little is known about the quality of orphanages. Nigeria research situation analysis on orphans and vulnerable children (2009) indicates an official figure estimate of 17.5 million orphans and vulnerable children, although, practitioners in the field believe this figure could be underestimating the size and scope of the problem. Shelter is important for orphaned children to meet their developmental needs, top equip them with knowledge and skills required for independent life in the community, to help them retain sense of belonging and identity, and to help them benefit from the continuous support of network within that community (NELA, 2008). This thesis aims at aiding in emergence of a new architectural design framework that supports formation of an ideal environment for the swelling number of orphans across Nigeria.

Sustainable Design Unit

“Most of us are lucky enough to spend our childhood at home. Many remember those years warmly. And even those of us with decidedly fierce memories about growing up still usually manage to gradate to reasonable productive adult lives.” McKenzie, R., B., 2009, “Home Away From Home: The Forgotten History of Orphanages”, Encounter Books, United Stated of America. Within a family there are good but also bad moments, and even if one had the opportunity to relive their childhood, again would not have change a thing because family support is a significant component for a human. This thesis is centered on children, who do not have the good fortune of having a family member caring for them. Hundreds thousands of children all over the world are growing up under dreadful conditions. Most of the time they are children that have lost one or even both of their parents and in some cases the children have been neglected, physically or psychologically, abused by their parents or their legal guardians. The objective of this thesis is to question how architecture can affect the life of an orphan by creating better living conditions for them until they find a permanent home. Through architecture the environment would be shaped in order to become a ‘home’ for these children, that helps them to grow up without the problems that are normally associated with various institutions, such as orphanages, and focus on elements that are important for the child development. With the intention of investigating the perfect milieu for children there are some parameters that should be taken in account. Three of those parameters are, domesticity, playing and day-dreaming, which play an important role in the mental and physical development of a child. As a result of observing different orphanages, such as the SOS Children Villages, the Amsterdam Orphanage, and other kinds of children’s centers, positive as well negative outcomes will be subtracted that will help in the development of an ideal orphanage.

Yusuf Yusuf

Insurgency in north eastern Nigeria have produce hundreds of Thousands of orphans who have no place to call home and few number of orphanages exist in the region which are not enough to cater for their needs. Also previous works on orphanage designs lack the required provision of incorporating culture and traditional family setting in design of the facility which serve as a means of connecting the orphans with their cultural and social environment. This research work is built on the subject of integrating critical regionalism features in orphanage design. Critical regionalism offers a better methodology towards providing condition of authenticity in which a new architecture can be consciously originated out of the traditional architectural characteristics of a particular region in order to withstand the domination of modernism. The argument draws its background to the study of relevant literature. Reviews on the writings of prominent critical regionalist architects and theorists aided in the culminating of a set of features on which variables (directly related to the subject of critical regionalism) evolved. The features such as, ‘A preference for regional intentions over normative optimization’, ‘A consciously bounded architecture’, ‘More than scenographic episodes or sentimental historicism’, ‘A response to local conditions and climate’ and ‘Tactility’ were explored and their importance in design was extensively analysed. Four Case studies, two local two foreign were conducted and analysed to determine the level of reflection of critical regionalism using general variables with emphases on the features of critical regionalism. The local cases studies are ‘safe our soul’ (SOS) orphans children village Jos and Gwagwalada orphans’ village Abuja. While the foreign cases studies are SOS Aqaba Jordan and Pondicherry orphanage India. From the cases studied, it shows that the level of reflection of critical regionalism features in all the selected cases depend on the location of the facility. The foreign case studies Showed highest level of reflection of critical regionalism features with average of 28.64% and 27.16% in heir design while the local case studies showed least level of reflection with average of 22.26% and 21.29% in their design. The study indicate the appropriateness of designing orphanages in traditional family setting that promotes child development through the integration of critical Regionalism features. Thus seek to provide orphans a home with family were they can develop and become accustom to natural family and social structure of which they have been deprived of for any number of reasons.

Rasika Ayarkar

Allison Amin Gayapersad

Background The negative impact of institutionalization on children's development and well-being has led to a global recommendation for deinstitutionalization. In countries with weak infrastructure and family support, some children in institutional care have been found to have better outcomes, which may be due in part to the family-like environments created by some Charitable Children's Institutions (CCIs). Objective The goal was to examine whether and how alternative kinship structures were reproduced in CCIs. Method Qualitative data from 22 caregivers and 30 orphaned or separated children and adolescents (OSCAs) were collected using participant observation and in-depth interviews, and analysed using a symbolic interactionist theoretical framework. Results Social interaction with caregivers contributed meaning towards the definition of family within some CCIs, particularly those modeled after a village and/or a single family. These CCIs created a family-like care environment, resulting in OSCAs redefining the traditional concept of family based on consanguinity to one composed of non-kin providing care and support. Social interaction through family-related activities produced novel famil-ial identities, and some OSCAs felt they were part of a quasi-family. However, OSCAs lacked autonomy, feared consequences of not following the rules of behaviour, and felt re-traumatized and re-abandoned when they exited the CCIs at age 18. Conclusion Some CCIs created an "alternative" kinship structure in which most children focused on their education, were provided with basic needs, and formed long-term positive relationships. Despite a number of challenges, family-like CCIs may be a supportive last resort for children without kin to care for them.

Godfrey Biemba

Leigh-Anne Gillespie

During conflicts and crises, children often face multiple stressors that can have significant impacts on their physical, cognitive, social and emotional development. Because unaccompanied and separated children (UASC) have lost the care and protection of their primary caregivers, they face a heightened risk of abuse, neglect, exploitation and violence. As a result, programming for UASC cases is often prioritized in the context of humanitarian interventions. But what is the impact of protection interventions on UASC in humanitarian crises in low and middle income countries? How effective are child protection activities specific to UASC at restoring a protective environment? How effective are interventions aimed at preventing and responding to abuse, exploitation, violence and neglect at ensuring the safety of UASC? How effective are mental health and psychosocial support interventions in promoting the mental health and psychosocial well-being of UASC? This systematic review synthesizes and evaluates the existing evidence base in order to find a response.

Getrude Gwenzi, PhD

Young people leaving care have been the subject of international research in the last decade, whilst in Africa studies are still few. The ability of young people to transition successfully from institutional care to independent living in society has become a policy concern which includes recommendations to treat institutional care as a last resort or looking for alternatives other than the institution for placement. This is because of the documented poor outcomes of care leavers internationally and in Sub-Saharan Africa. This study explored the factors influencing the transition from care to independence in Harare, Zimbabwe. Utilising qualitative research methods and thematic analysis, the study identified a number of factors that affect young people from the view of social service professionals and residential care workers. Respondents were purposively selected and data was collected using semi-structured interviews, an online focus group and the use of observation. In Zimbabwe, the social service system has been affected since 2008, by the economic crisis and the effects of poverty and hardship has trickled down to affect the most vulnerable children and young people. The study found a number of factors which influence young people’s transitions from care in Harare. Among these were the young person’s previous circumstances, the role of the Department of Social Services, the role of the institution and the expectation of instant adulthood. Other contributing factors such as the capabilities of the young person and relationships with caregivers were mentioned by the respondents. The study made recommendations for more successful transitions from institutional care which include; recognising that care leavers are not a homogenous group and the need for improved knowledge of care leaver outcomes and transition processes for residential caregivers. Key words: care leavers, institution, independence, mainstream society, social services, transitions, residential care, young people.

RELATED PAPERS

Laine Scales

W. Scott Smith

Visual Anthropology Review

Ginger Johnson

Niels P E T E R Rygaard

Karen Smith Rotabi -Casares

Children and Youth Services Review

Bonnie Fournier

The History of the Family

Ariadne Schmidt

Bonnie Fournier , Andrea Kennedy

BMC International Health and Human Rights

Winstone Nyandiko

John Sergeev

Kate van Doore , Megan Jones

Conflict, Violence, and Peace: Geographies of Children and Young People Vol. 11

Karen Smith Rotabi -Casares , Kristen Cheney

GUNJA SENGUPTA

Tariku Tadesse

University of Amsterdam

Andye Sanon

Journal of Educational and Social Research

Kwabena Frimpong-manso

Health Policy and Planning

Yan Alicia Hong

ALTERNATE CARE FOR CHILDREN IN INSTITUTIONS

Ronald Federici

Journal of Children and Poverty

Huguette O'Brien , Thérèse Desrosiers

Journal of Family History

Tara Batista , Allen Johnson

Anke Winchenbach , Paul Miedema

gill boehringer

P. Jane Reas

IJAR Indexing

Nazan Maksudyan

East European Jewish Affairs

Sean Martin

CRC en patrimoine religieux bâti

Sandra Cavallo

Continuity and Change

Evelien Walhout

Leslie Wang

Shah Amir Ezham Ismail

Annie Berens (Kalt)

Colleen B Norton

Kenneth N Harvey

•   We're Hiring!
•   Help Center
• Find new research papers in:
• Health Sciences
• Earth Sciences
• Cognitive Science
• Mathematics
• Computer Science
• Academia ©2024

James Edward So

• Save to list

Renders and details of design 10 thesis

• Architecture

This website does not fully support Internet Explorer 6. Your general web browsing experience will be much improved if you upgrade for free to Internet Explorer 9 or Google Chrome .

Moscow State Palace of Child and Youth Creativity

Moscow State Palace of Child and Youth Creativity (MGDTiYu) was originally called the Palace of Young Pioneers, a community center for young people. It was founded 1936 but opened only in June 1962.Palace of Pioneers in Moscow became one of the first true experiments of Soviet modernism. To this day it makes a clean and effective impression.Different parts of the building had different decorative themes to indicate the function of the places.The center includes the main structure or palace, with its study halls, studios and other rooms for indoor group activities, a small auditorium, a concert hall, a stadium, some playgrounds for sports, swimming pool, pond, nature trail, outdoor theater and some other structures for science experiments and other activities.

Khrushchev who was critical of local architecture up to this point was very fond of the project. He personally opened the palace and offered his positive review. He said at the opening: "Some like it, others may not like it... But I like it." The project became a showcase of Soviet architecture and renewal process. It was often visited by dignitaries and such famous architects as Alvaro Aalto and Lucio Costa.

Today this Moscow Palace of Child (Youth) Creativity offers over 1200 groups and classes for children up to age 18. These extra-curricular activities cover a wide range of interests including visual arts, engineering, astronomy, ecology, technical sports, music, driving, creative development, scientific research and others.

All our texts and many of our images appear under the Creative Commons Attribution Share-Alike License ( CC BY-SA ). All our content is written and edited by our community.

Rusakov Workers Club

House of Film Actors

Find anything you save across the site in your account

At the Ali Forney Center, a New Project With MoMA Celebrates Team Effort

By Sam Cochran

How do you build a sense of belonging?” That, in the words of architectural designer Tei Carpenter, was the prompt for her and Chris Woebken’s collaboration with the Museum of Modern Art . Launched on behalf of the Ali Forney Center —the largest provider of shelter for unhoused LGBTQ+ youth—the project was more of an inquiry than an assignment. “We began with value-storming exercises,” says Woebken, an interactive designer and researcher focusing on participatory futures, recalling workshops with AFC clients and staff. Conversations on identity affirmation and safety led to design sessions as ideas took hold. Notes Carpenter, principal of the firm Agency—Agency, “it could have become so many things.”

The Ali Forney Center’s new salon was designed according to participatory workshops with clients and staff.

The results blend glamour, gusto, and social glue. At AFC’s Manhattan drop-in center, clients can now receive beauty and hair treatments in an immersive salon, tucked beyond a beaded curtain in what was once a windowless room. Thanks to collective input, its walls are lined in shelving like that at local wig shops, and its ceiling is covered in a grid of reflective 360-degree half domes (the kind used in security). And an LED ticker relays uplifting messages (e.g., gurl i look lavish) generated by clients themselves.

AFC’s new sensory room.

Whereas the salon gives AFC clients the opportunity to glow up, the new sensory space is a chance to calm down. Weighted blankets quiet autonomic nervous responses; a library of objects and layers of curtains afford varied tactile experiences; and inflatable cushions ease the body. All the while, light and sound levels can be adjusted according to preferences. “How one person relaxes can be so different than how another person does,” Carpenter explains, noting the considerations paid to the needs of neurodivergent individuals.

As Alexander Roque, AFC’s president and executive director, explains, the collaboration with longtime partner MoMA both “allowed for a creative outlet and provided much needed self-care, be it in body or spirit.” These days, in a testament to that success, AFC clients feel right at home in the two spaces. “Right after they opened, both were in heavy use,” recalls Woebken. “They’re already messy—just as they’re supposed to be.”

More Great Stories From AD

The Story Behind the Many Ghost Towns of Abandoned Mansions Across China

Inside Sofía Vergara’s Personal LA Paradise

Inside Emily Blunt and John Krasinski’s Homes Through the Years

Take an Exclusive First Look at Shea McGee’s Remodel of Her Own Home

Notorious Mobsters at Home: 13 Photos of Domestic Mob Life

Shop Amy Astley’s Picks of the Season

Modular Homes: Everything You Need to Know About Going Prefab

Shop Best of Living—Must-Have Picks for the Living Room

Beautiful Pantry Inspiration We’re Bookmarking From AD PRO Directory Designers

Not a subscriber? Join AD for print and digital access now.

Browse the  AD PRO Directory to find an  AD -approved design expert for your next project.

ScholarWorks@UMass Amherst

• < Previous

Home > ETDS > Masters Theses > 1191

Masters Theses

Off-campus UMass Amherst users: To download campus access dissertations, please use the following link to log into our proxy server with your UMass Amherst user name and password.

Non-UMass Amherst users: Please talk to your librarian about requesting this dissertation through interlibrary loan.

Dissertations that have an embargo placed on them will not be available to anyone until the embargo expires.

Addressing Trauma Through Architecture: Cultivating Well-being For Youth Who Have Experienced Trauma

Megan Itzkowitz , University of Massachusetts Amherst Follow

https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6143-4529

Access Type

Open Access Thesis

Document Type

Degree program.

Architecture

Degree Type

Master of Architecture (M.Arch.)

Year Degree Awarded

Month degree awarded.

The aim of this thesis is to create an architectural design for youth that is informed by and in response to current trauma informed healthcare guidelines and research about wellness, with a focus on safety, trustworthiness, and empowerment.

70% of adults in the U.S. have experienced some type of traumatic event at least once in their lives, which stems into a larger risk factor public health group for substance abuse disorders and behavioral health issues (SAHMSA, 2014). “Individual trauma results from an event, series of events, or set of circumstances that is experienced by an individual as physically or emotionally harmful or life threatening and that has lasting adverse effects on the individual’s functioning and mental, physical, social, emotional, or spiritual well-being” (National Council for Behavioral Health, 2013).

Understanding how trauma can affect humans and applying this information from a human centered approach helps architectural designers create spaces that cultivate wellbeing. These spaces acknowledge the needs of the user by integrating the knowledge of trauma into its design phase, from beginning to end. As a result, re-traumatization is avoided, and a user-focused space can be created.

This paper will evaluate and combine research about how to care for traumatized patients in the healthcare setting with research about how spaces make us feel, to create a community center with a focus in mental health outreach in Easthampton, MA. This project addresses the idea that design and space do have an influence on healing in various settings.

https://doi.org/10.7275/28852259

First Advisor

Sana B Litchfield

Second Advisor

Ela D. Walker

Recommended Citation

Itzkowitz, Megan, "Addressing Trauma Through Architecture: Cultivating Well-being For Youth Who Have Experienced Trauma" (2022). Masters Theses . 1191. https://doi.org/10.7275/28852259 https://scholarworks.umass.edu/masters_theses_2/1191

Since June 28, 2022

Included in

Architecture Commons

Advanced Search

• Notify me via email or RSS
• Collections
• Disciplines

Author Corner

• Submission Guidelines
• Login for Faculty Authors
• Faculty Author Gallery
• Submit Thesis
• University Libraries
• UMass Amherst

This page is sponsored by the University Libraries.

© 2009 University of Massachusetts Amherst • Site Policies

Privacy Copyright

You are here

Idaho commons and teaching and learning center.

• Location: Moscow Idaho Regional Essays: Idaho Latah County Architect: Yost Grube Hall Walker Macy Landscape Architects OPSIS Types: student unions public spaces dining halls cafeterias (eating and drinking spaces) coffee shops lounges (sitting rooms) convention centers classrooms university and college buildings Styles: Postmodern Materials: no metadata available

What's Nearby

D. Nels Reese, " Idaho Commons and Teaching and Learning Center ", [ Moscow , Idaho ], SAH Archipedia, eds. Gabrielle Esperdy and Karen Kingsley, Charlottesville: UVaP, 2012—, http://sah-archipedia.org/buildings/ID-01-057-0038 . Last accessed: June 6, 2024.

Permissions and Terms of Use

Together, the Idaho Commons and Teaching and Learning Center form a gathering place at the core of the University of Idaho campus in Moscow. This mixed-use facility was built over a five-year period, from 2000 to 2005. The university’s previous student gathering place was located on the east edge of campus. The idea for a centrally located facility began in the 1980s as a Department of Art and Architecture student thesis project and evolved, under the guidance of University of Idaho Planning Director Joanne Reese and the San Francisco firm of Royston, Hanamoto, Alley and Abey, into a long-range campus plan. The university hired Portland architectural firm Yost Grube Hall to design the Commons. Alec Holzer, chief designer, led the design team for the next five years as the entire facility took shape; Holzer later became principal of his own Portland firm, Opsis, which designed the Teaching and Learning Center.

The irregular site required the assistance of landscape architecture firm Macy and Walker in placement of the four-story, 145,000-square-foot facility. An existing 1965 classroom building was incorporated into the final design. The new facility’s brick exterior references the historic Collegiate Gothic campus buildings. The faceted and varied envelope, with its glass curtain walls, also references the nearby 1960s and 1970s modernist buildings. The main entry of the Commons is clearly identified by a tall, three-story tower. A grand, curved staircase provides entry into the complex, which is clustered around a four-story atrium that houses the food court and special event rooms. Surrounding the atrium on three sides are porch-like elements that allow vantage points from which the activity in the atrium can be observed. The building gracefully supports daylighting through the use of numerous clerestories located above the great atrium and above a collection of meeting spaces on the upper floors. More than any other building on the University of Idaho campus, the Commons serves as hub, with pathways across the campus through six entries and exits at four different levels of the building. It brings many elements of the campus together in one complex space, serving as lounge, dining hall, study, offices, and classrooms. The restructured and updated classroom building provides twenty-nine high-tech classrooms within mere steps of coffee shops, dining facilities, tutoring areas, counseling support, bank tellers, and copy services. As a new model for student unions, this facility has been dubbed the “Recombinant Student Union.”

Since its construction, the building and the architects have received awards from the architectural community as well as from the Association of Student Unions.

“University of Idaho University Commons.” Yost Grube Hall Architecture. Accessed January 21, 2019. http://ygh.com/ .

Writing Credits

• Location: Moscow, Idaho Regional Overviews: Latah County Architect: Yost Grube Hall Types: student unions public spaces dining halls cafeterias (eating and drinking spaces) coffee shops lounges (sitting rooms) convention centers classrooms university and college buildings Styles: Postmodern Materials: no metadata available

If SAH Archipedia has been useful to you, please consider supporting it.

SAH Archipedia tells the story of the United States through its buildings, landscapes, and cities. This freely available resource empowers the public with authoritative knowledge that deepens their understanding and appreciation of the built environment. But the Society of Architectural Historians, which created SAH Archipedia with University of Virginia Press, needs your support to maintain the high-caliber research, writing, photography, cartography, editing, design, and programming that make SAH Archipedia a trusted online resource available to all who value the history of place, heritage tourism, and learning.

Moscow, Russia – Architectural Splendor at the Heart of Eurasia

Moscow, Russia – Most Populated Cities in the World

Moscow, the capital city of Russia, stands as an architectural testament to the country’s rich history and cultural legacy. This article explores the architectural landscape of Moscow, uncovering its unique blend of historical monuments, Soviet-era structures, and contemporary designs that define this vibrant metropolis.

Population Dynamics of Moscow

From medieval roots to megacity.

Moscow, with a population exceeding 12 million, has evolved from its medieval roots into a bustling megacity. The city’s demographic dynamism reflects its historical significance as a political, economic, and cultural center. Moscow’s urban growth presents challenges and opportunities for architects and urban planners, requiring a delicate balance between preservation and modernization.

Architectural Diversity in Moscow

Kremlin, red square, and the modern skyline.

Moscow’s architectural diversity is a harmonious blend of historical landmarks and contemporary structures. The iconic Kremlin, with its cathedrals and palaces, dominates the cityscape, while the neighboring Red Square provides a historical focal point. Beyond the historical core, Moscow’s skyline is adorned with modern skyscrapers like the Moscow International Business Center, symbolizing the city’s economic and architectural evolution.

Sustainable Architecture Initiatives

Green innovations amidst urban density.

As Moscow confronts environmental challenges and urban density, architects have championed sustainable solutions. Green building practices, energy-efficient designs, and eco-friendly materials are integral to Moscow’s architectural discourse. The city’s commitment to sustainability is evident in projects like Zaryadye Park, a green oasis in the heart of the city.

Urban Planning and Zoning Strategies

Preserving heritage amidst modernization.

Moscow’s urban planning endeavors to preserve its historical heritage while accommodating modern developments. The preservation of architectural gems like St. Basil’s Cathedral and the Pushkin Museum coexists with contemporary urban projects such as the Moscow City residential complexes. Urban planners in Moscow face the challenge of balancing the demands of a growing population with the need to protect the city’s cultural legacy.

Resilience in the Face of Urban Challenges

Adaptable architecture for harsh climates.

Moscow’s architectural resilience is tested by the city’s harsh climate and urban challenges. Architects prioritize designs that can withstand extreme temperatures and adapt to the evolving urban landscape. The use of durable materials and innovative construction techniques showcases Moscow’s commitment to architectural adaptability.

Technological Integration in Moscow’s Architecture

Smart city initiatives and futuristic designs.

Moscow’s architectural landscape seamlessly integrates cutting-edge technology for enhanced urban living. Smart city initiatives, digital infrastructure, and futuristic designs like the Moscow Central Diameters (MCD) showcase the city’s commitment to technological innovation. Moscow positions itself as a global hub for modern architectural practices, leveraging technology to improve efficiency and sustainability.

Architectural Icons of Moscow

Kremlin and red square.

The Kremlin and Red Square, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, symbolize Moscow’s historical and political significance. The architectural ensemble, including the iconic St. Basil’s Cathedral and the State Historical Museum, reflects Russia’s cultural and religious heritage.

Moscow International Business Center (Moscow City)

Moscow City, with its futuristic skyscrapers, represents the city’s economic prowess and modern aesthetic. The complex includes iconic structures like the Federation Tower and Mercury City Tower, showcasing Moscow’s status as a global financial and architectural hub.

Moscow’s Future Architectural Landscape

As Moscow continues to evolve, the city’s architectural landscape is poised for further transformation. Urban planners and architects are exploring innovative solutions to accommodate the growing population while preserving the city’s unique identity. Moscow’s commitment to sustainable practices, technological integration, and resilient design will shape its architectural future.

In conclusion, Moscow, Russia, stands as a city where architectural marvels narrate the story of a nation’s history and progress. From medieval fortifications to contemporary skyscrapers, Moscow’s architectural landscape is a testament to its resilience and adaptability. As the city looks toward the future, its architectural canvas promises to be a captivating blend of tradition, modernity, and technological innovation at the heart of Eurasia.

Rethinking The Future (RTF) is a Global Platform for Architecture and Design. RTF through more than 100 countries around the world provides an interactive platform of highest standard acknowledging the projects among creative and influential industry professionals.

Shenzhen, China – The Architectural Marvel of Urban Innovation

Bogota, Colombia – Architectural Marvels in the Andean Capital

Related posts.

Fernandez Architecture: Crafting Elegance and Minimalism in Architectural Excellence

Christ Hospital Joint and Spine Center, USA: Revolutionizing Healthcare Architecture

Buerger Center for Advanced Pediatric Care, USA: Elevating Pediatric Healthcare Architecture

The New Hospital Tower at Rush University Medical Center, USA: Redefining Healthcare Architecture Excellence

Teletón Infant Oncology Clinic, Mexico: A Paradigm of Healing Architecture

Pars Hospital, Iran: A Masterpiece of Architectural Ingenuity in Healthcare

• Architectural Community
• Architectural Facts
• RTF Architectural Reviews
• Architectural styles
• City and Architecture
• Fun & Architecture
• History of Architecture
• Design Studio Portfolios
• Designing for typologies
• RTF Design Inspiration
• Architecture News
• Career Advice
• Case Studies
• Construction & Materials
• Covid and Architecture
• Interior Design
• Know Your Architects
• Landscape Architecture
• Materials & Construction
• Product Design
• RTF Fresh Perspectives
• Sustainable Architecture
• Top Architects
• Travel and Architecture
• Rethinking The Future Awards 2022
• RTF Awards 2021 | Results
• GADA 2021 | Results
• RTF Awards 2020 | Results
• ACD Awards 2020 | Results
• GADA 2019 | Results
• ACD Awards 2018 | Results
• GADA 2018 | Results
• RTF Awards 2017 | Results
• RTF Sustainability Awards 2017 | Results
• RTF Sustainability Awards 2016 | Results
• RTF Sustainability Awards 2015 | Results
• RTF Awards 2014 | Results
• RTF Architectural Visualization Competition 2020 – Results
• Architectural Photography Competition 2020 – Results
• Designer’s Days of Quarantine Contest – Results
• Urban Sketching Competition May 2020 – Results
• RTF Essay Writing Competition April 2020 – Results
• Architectural Photography Competition 2019 – Finalists
• The Ultimate Thesis Guide
• Introduction to Landscape Architecture
• Perfect Guide to Architecting Your Career
• How to Design Architecture Portfolio
• How to Design Streets
• Introduction to Urban Design
• Introduction to Product Design
• Complete Guide to Dissertation Writing
• Introduction to Skyscraper Design
• Educational
• Hospitality
• Institutional
• Office Buildings
• Public Building
• Residential
• Sports & Recreation
• Temporary Structure
• Commercial Interior Design
• Corporate Interior Design
• Healthcare Interior Design
• Hospitality Interior Design
• Residential Interior Design
• Sustainability
• Transportation
• Urban Design
• Host your Course with RTF
• Architectural Writing Training Programme | WFH
• Editorial Internship | In-office
• Graphic Design Internship
• Research Internship | WFH
• Research Internship | New Delhi
• RTF | About RTF
• Submit Your Story

Looking for Job/ Internship?

Rtf will connect you with right design studios.

• Hispanoamérica
• Work at ArchDaily
• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Cookie Policy