New Kent State Architecture Building Generates Excitement in the Architecture Profession

Kent State University’s College of Architecture and Environmental Design will soon be getting a new home on the Kent State University Esplanade, a pedestrian walkway through campus that is currently being extended into downtown Kent, Ohio.

A new architecture building is part of the university’s campus transformation, called “Foundations of Excellence: Building the Future,” which involves the construction of new buildings, facility upgrades and establishment of dynamic, new spaces. The goal of this initiative is to create the most outstanding academic experience for students, faculty, staff, alumni and the greater community enriched by the university.

Kent State is hosting a design competition for the new architecture building to be constructed along the Kent State University Esplanade extension near downtown Kent. The estimated cost of the new building is $40 million. Currently, this signature program is housed in three, separate structures. A new building will unite the college under one roof.

“We are certain with the talents of the firms that are vying for this project, the end result will be a building that is a fantastic addition to our campus, an icon for one of Kent State’s signature programs and a model of forward-thinking, sustainable design that will inspire a generation of future architects,” said Michael Bruder, director of design and construction at Kent State’s Office of the University Architect.

Internationally recognized architects have already applied, giving Kent State a wide range of candidates to choose from. In all, 36 entries were received. Six will be chosen by mid-October.

“This list of architects is unprecedented for a Kent State project,” said Douglas Steidl, dean of the College of Architecture and Environmental Design at Kent State. “This is truly a significant list of 36 teams. Those who have applied include Zaha Hadid, who is deemed the leading female architect in the world; Coop Himelb(l)au, who created the Akron Art Museum; Thom Mayne of Morphosis; and numerous other designers of note. Seven of the teams contain AIA National Firm Award winners, geographically located from Boston to Seattle. Many are recognized for their work across the country and around the world.”

For a full list of the submitters, visit www.kent.edu/universityarchitect/projects/upload/ksu-11b153_caed-architectspartnersubmittallog.pdf.

For more information about Kent State’s College of Architecture and Environmental Design, visit www.kent.edu/caed.

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Media Contact:
Emily Vincent, evincen2@kent.edu, 330-672-8595