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Cahill Center for Astronomy and Astrophysics at Caltech The Bernard and Anne Spitzer School of Architecture 41 Cooper Square Deichmann Center for Social Interaction & Spitzer-Salant School of Social Work Harvard NW Science Building Kroon Hall, Yale School of Forestry and Environmental Studies LASALLE College of the Arts Francesco Bellini Life Sciences Building and the Cancer Research Building St. Edward's University New Residence and Dining HallSherred Hall Price Center East Arizona State University Walter Cronkite School of Journalism & Mass Communication Deichmann Center for Social Interaction & Spitzer-Salant School of Social Work
Completion Date: May 2008
Client: Ben Gurion University
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Program: The project featured two components: a 26,000-square-foot building for a school of social work, and a 25,500-square-foot community center for at-risk children. The complex features a theater; computer labs; conference, art, and reading rooms; offices; and public indoor and outdoor seating areas.
Design concept and solution: California-based Vert Architects designed these sculptural concrete and zinc-clad structures to connect the Gurion University of the Negev with the city of Beer Sheva. Shaded outdoor courtyards and interior atriums that provide shelter from desert heat and sandstorms are open to the public, merging the city and academics. The buildings sit 10 feet below street level, not only to buffer noise from an adjacent highway, but also to provide a visual and physical transition from city life to academic life. A freestanding concrete ramp begins at the piazza level and leads visitors up through courtyards and into a multi-story glass atrium. The ramp connects to a balcony overlooking Beer Sheva and to the campus’s main pedestrian walkway. Windows are deeply recessed to mitigate solar gain and glare, and the west facade features minimal fenestration. Building materials, such as concrete, were selected for their UV resistance and durability.
Gross square footage:
Spitzer-Salant School of Social Work: 26,000 sq. ft.
Deichmann Center for Social Interaction: 25,500 sq. ft.
Site size: 50,000 sq. ft.
Total construction cost:
$6 million
Architect:
Vert Architects - Raquel Vert, principal in charge, ASSC. AIA
18039 Keren Drive
Encino, California 91316
T: 818-708-3361
F: 818-708-2041
www.vertarchitects.com
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