GateWay Community College Integrated Education Building

General Contractor

Core Construction
Phoenix, Arizona

Owner

GateWay Community College
Tempe, Arizona

Landscape Architect

SmithGroupJJR
Phoenix, Arizona

Civil Engineer

Dibble Engineering
Phoenix, Arizona

Structural Engineer

Paragon Structural Design, Inc.
Phoenix, Arizona

As one of the main features in its design, copper transforms the Integrated Education Building of Phoenix into a transitional urban campus while complementing the existing architectural character. The building demanded an affordable, no-maintenance material that could blend with a series of existing and new buildings on campus. For this, the design team chose copper because it would weather beautifully and naturally in Arizona's arid desert climate. Not only is copper a significant material in Arizona's history and economy (Arizona has led copper production nationally for the last century), it allowed the design team a great deal of flexibility in terms of panel design. A series of custom-designed perforated copper panel profiles allowed the creation of numerous shaded outdoor student spaces promoting 'breeze making' and maintaining views where appropriate.

The use of masonry and glass create a cohesive extension of the campus's five existing buildings, while the introduction of copper as a functional and sustainable material redefines the brand and identity of this urban oasis. More than 122,000 pounds of copper is utilized strategically and creatively to become one of the main features of the design. A series of calibrated, perforated copper panels are employed to create 'breathable shade' while acting as a railing for balconies, stairs, outdoor terraces and student spaces. The design team worked extensively with the fabricator and installer to custom design each panel system based on performance criteria of shade, span and material-waste elimination. The building most significantly orients itself towards the main existing campus quadrangle and amphitheater, with a cascading series of outdoor spaces that create community and elevate the 'brand' of the campus and its student identity. The 'scoop' element is comprised of a double layer of custom-broken perforated copper panels that create shade for outdoor student study space. The building's entire south façade is shaded with a protective layer of articulated copper shade scrims, creating an elevated terrace space at the building's upper levels. An intentional horizontal thrust accentuates the movement of students into the heart of campus.

Architectural Category: Exotic or Unusual Applications