•  20,000 SF addition
•  30,000 SF renovation

Inspired by unique regional landscape of the Catskill mountains of New York State, where this campus is located, the expansion to the student union is a crystalline palisade whose form and surface recall the tectonic character of the Shawangunk mountain ridge of the Catskill which is located just beyond the site. Set between two existing concrete brutalist buildings, the glass expansion provides an illuminated gateway to the campus and an iconic character that is uniquely related to the university’s location in New York State while being respectful of the late-20th century concrete brutalist structures adjacent to the expansion. The design carefully details the connection to the existing buildings and utilizes these buildings as background. In order to make the campus commons a flexible column-free space, we created a structural stress skin that is the expressed character of the living room for the New Paltz community. This student-centered space provides a place for students to gather, study, play and work collaboratively.  It is a place to see and be seen. Additionally, the building is designed for a LEED Silver certification. Sustainable design elements include radiant heating and cooling; photo-optic lighting controls and natural day lighting and views.