FSR5_DesignBasis

Basis of Design The Health and Biomedical Sciences Center is located adjacent to the existing College of Optometry due to the fact that this department initiated the project. The materiel envelope in use is undulating precast concrete panels present on the North façade. The west elevation is predominately solid with a cantilevering glass box that encases the vertical circulation. Regardless of the common rule that South light is undesired, the architects designed the South elevation with expansive glazing –made up of fritted glass that provides for solar control. The top four floors are designated purely for the research and medical facilities, as a way to maintain sterilization of both laboratories and equipment. Classrooms, administrative and faculty offices, and an auditorium are placed at the lower levels for simple access to the College of Optometry. Almost a building in itself, the mechanical spaces are housed on the East side of the site, hidden from street view. Essentially, the building is made up of three components: academic, research and practice –these separate pieces are the driving force behind the organization of the building’s design.