Joukowsky Institute

What were the circumstances of receiving the commission for this project?

RFQ/RFP/Interview process. AW was one of five firms considered.

Can you describe your design process for the project?

The project is an adaptive re-use of an historic Greek Revival building - one of the oldest on the Brown University campus. We restored the exterior and completely gutted the interior of everything except the masonry walls and roof structure. Our approach was to establish a design vocabulary that would both dovetail and contrast with the existing building, as well as a new spatial order within the building that would support cross-pollination between research and teaching.

How does the interior compare to other projects in your office, be it the same or other building types?

This project approach is similar to other adaptive reuse projects that we have done, and reflects a general strategy of contemporary intervention within a recognizable historic host, and the exploration of the relationship between shells and liners. And like other projects we developed a kit of parts or system of construction to support those relationships.

How does the project relate to contemporary architectural trends, be it sustainability, technology, etc.?

The building will be LEED Gold certified, and will exceed the University's sustainable mandates.