dumontjanks

As Auburn University’s College of Agriculture prepared to demolish and replace their largest 1970s-built academic building, they paused to determine the college’s optimal future geography, in both near- and long-term time frames. To help them develop criteria and scenarios, we analyzed current space utilization and student course enrollment patterns, toured and mapped existing facilities, and assessed existing building suitability and condition. Our course enrollment patterns revealed the importance of proximity to the campus core, especially for students, who take only a third of their courses within the college. We explored multiple scenarios, including a wholesale move of the college, but advanced two that maintain strong connections to collaborative academic units, afford strong physical visibility, and provide an intimacy that supports the college’s supportive family identity. Our design explorations included the development of bold open space ideas, architectural responses that both respected the historic fabric of the campus and allowed for showcase opportunities for more transparency to highlight the important work of the college, and important service and transportation requirements. We also explored the college’s larger land holdings, dealing with important issues of watershed protection, herd management, strategic acquisitions, and most importantly, the establishment of a narrative explaining the importance of the college’s acreage, and why this land needs to be preserved for agricultural uses. The scenarios also emphasized the importance of long-term broader opportunities for the university as a whole. The resulting plan provides the modern facilities that current agriculture research requires, while celebrating the college’s history and culture within the institution.