Architecture | Interior Design
Princeton, NJ
|
Highlights
• 24,700 sf
• Extensive shareholder interviews
• New floor levels
• Exterior restoration
• Open work plan
|
The building, originally constructed in 1928, is an excellent example of the Collegiate Gothic style prevalent on campus. The building had been expanded in 1959 with a large masonry addition that obscurred the original entry.
Clarke Caton Hintz began by programming the project through extensive interviews with University personnel. Based upon these discussions, the later building addition was removed and new floor levels were inserted within the original structure’s shell. By doing so, the Department of Public Safety can occupy the basement and first two floors. The third floor is dedicated to the Office of Design and Construction. The Department of Public Safety is located at grade for obvious security, safety and service reasons so that it is easily accessible to the Campus. In addition, the existing conveyor house located at the roof level was renovated for re-use as mechanical and storage space.
The exterior of the original structure was restored, including masonry cleaning and re-pointing, installation of new windows and the installation of new copper cladding at the existing conveyor house. A small shed structure attached to the building at the Southwest corner was rehabilitated as dedicated space for a regional generator and technology hub. The interior spaces of the Boilerhouse creates an interesting dialogue between the existing industrial character of the building and the crisp, modernist aesthetic of the new offices.
The parti for the building creates two halves. The area along the North façade is open in nature to take full advantage of the available light from the large, pointed arched windows. Where possible, there are open work areas, utilizing landscape furniture systems. The section of the building located along the South façade includes the two means of egress stairs, elevator, restrooms and private offices. As these spaces are more private, glass walls or transoms are included in each office to capitalize on the daylighting filtering from the North. New windows have been created in the South façade to supplement the natural light.
The site of the building is situated prominently at the Southern entrance to the campus. 200 Elm Drive is one of first and most visible structures visitors see when entering the University. Clustered with Baker Rink and the new Whitman College, the building further enhances the existing Collegiate Gothic character on campus and welcomes students, faculty, staff and visitors alike to Princeton University.
|
|
|
