The architectural concept of the new Director’s Office at the School of Architecture was based on three pillars: aesthetics – simplicity – transparency. Seen as an incubator for a comprehensive future remodel of the 1972 building, the design integrates into the fundamental architectural language of the existing ‘Béton Brut’ structure, yet displaying its own spatial and material character with confidence. During the process of remodeling, several layers of the old structure were revealed and utilized to combine the old with the new. An almost surgical process carefully exposed elements like the ceiling, the concrete floor, and reclaimed the original wooden wall siding above the glass. By refusing any decoration, the project constitutes an honest solution to a complex design challenge. Being centrally located in the studio spaces of the school, the small project is a distinguished example for the young student body to learn from.

Aesthetics - Strictly following Mies van der Rohe’s principle of “Less is More”, the design intervention is reduced to the minimum necessary to create a well-functioning space within the small given footprint. Using a clear architectural language that reflects the modern Zeitgeist, all selected materials and furniture are carefully attuned to one another, reducing the materials to concrete, glass, and steel. Transparent walls separate the spaces acoustically; spatially they seem to flow into one another. The chairs form a unit with the tables and modular file cabinets; pressed flowers in the assistant’s glass countertop are homage to the beauty of the surrounding nature of the Wasatch front.  

Simplicity - In a world that is more and more defined by a vociferous, visually overwhelming environment, buildings and their interiors need to be neutral and calm to allow for concentration, contemplation and pleasure. The chosen, partly new, partly retrieved materials offer occupants the opportunity to take over and personalize their space to make them feel comfortable. By avoiding any kind of provision, the spatial neutrality incorporates a high degree of flexibility and functionality; users are supported in their activities rather than limited. 

Transparency - The School of Architecture as a place of democracy and open discussion was the driving force to develop the new office as transparent as possible into the old building structure. Visual barriers are eliminated, permitting for communication beyond the open door of the traditional cell office. Natural southern daylight filters deep into the adjacent studio space, creating a sense of openness and unity without any obstruction. The director’s status as a central, highly perceptible figure in the life of the school is reflected in the new space; both director and assistant are visible and approachable, yet protected from disturbance by elegant and minimalistic glass walls. Visitors who approach the area via the northeastern staircase are directly guided to the display window of the new conference space, being welcomed by the ‘School of Architecture’ signature on the glass. In the future, the specific architectural language might extend along the entire central studio space, dipping the dark corridor area into natural, friendly light. 

Project Blackboard: 

Design: 2009

Direct Commission

Size: 750 SF

Direct construction cost: $60,000 including USM furniture

Construction: Fall 2009

Architecture: Atelier Jörg Rügemer

Structural Engineering: Dunn Associated, Paul McMullin

Client: School of Architecture, Dean Brenda Scheer