510.2 Architectural Design Statement
Approved 1987-03-03, Affirmed 2003-08-01
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Introduction
The preparation of a design statement has been done in the context of two major building proposals (Science Building and Recreation/Fitness Center), campus master planning, development of one or more points of entry or internal campus focal points, and landscaping improvement. All of these are directly or indirectly incorporated into this statement.
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General
Architectural design will recognize the traditions and values of the past, but will also reflect a progressive image of openness and looking forward.
Design will give expression to a strong sense of community and the belief that human beings grow and thrive best where many interactions are facilitated. Both interior and exterior space should reflect these values.
The built-in limitations of a railroad track bisecting the campus and busy highways skirting it on two sides will be minimized and overcome through design and construction to the highest degree possible.
“Pretend” materials should be avoided because of inherent dishonesty and visual pretense; i.e., Formica that look like wood, etc. Formica should look like plastic.
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General Campus
Attention will be given to identifying one or more major points of entry for automobile traffic, and one or more focal points for pedestrians to offset the limitations of the appearance and placement of buildings along South Min Street and College Avenue.
Campus layout and design will give a sense of openness and invitation to the outside world ot come in, yet with the awareness of expectations of respect and responsible behavior.
The interior of the campus will be seen as primarily pedestrian-friendly, with automobile access emphasized on the periphery. Parking space will be provided as proximate and convenient as possible to the destination of visitors within the above-stated limitations.
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Buildings
The design of existing buildings has not attempted to maintain a single style, appearance or statement. A unifying feature is the use of brick, which shall continue to be the exterior material of choice. Building additions will incorporate distinctive design features of the original structure.
Architectural design will recognize current innovations, but will be careful to express the character and function of the building. The design should combine a sense of both simplicity and elegance, but not draw attention to itself. Where feasible, flexibility will be regarded as virtuous to allow maximum multipurpose use as identified in program statements. This should include the possibility of a complete or partial change in building function in the future.
The character of each building, and its uniqueness, will be enhanced by the outside areas surrounding it. This will include not only plantings and landscaping, but such features as walkways, seating areas, shaping of the earth, artwork, etc.
The design of space to encourage human interaction, both planned and informal, is important. Placement of faculty and staff offices to promote ease of access and a sense of welcome to students and visitors is essential.
High value will be placed on energy efficiency, but with the maximum use of natural light and the creation of a sense of harmony between the inside and outside. This includes stewardship of all resources as well as designs to minimize owning and operating costs of buildings.
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Landscaping
In recognition of a variety of architectural styles and periods reflected in existing buildings, landscaping will be used as a unifying factor. This will include the type and amount of plantings, lighting and shaping of exterior space.
Where cost is not prohibitive, the use of brick for walkways, plazas and other suitable applications will be encouraged. Attention will be given to the placement of sculpture, murals, or other suitable works of art that contribute uniqueness to the Goshen College campus.
Any landscaping will recognize the change of seasons, seasonal colors, and the special features of a winter setting with many leafless trees, to create interest, appeal and warmth during times usually regarded as dismal and even depressing.
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Signage and Art
Signage will be developed which is uniform, distinctive and attractive in appearance; conveniently and accessibly located; readily visible; and helpful to those unfamiliar with the campus. Special attention will be given to those offices or functions that are of particular interest or importance to first-time visitors (e.g. Admissions, General Administration, freight deliveries, Art Gallery, information direction).
The products of campus artists, or others who share our vision, will be incorporated into both interior and exterior design and adornment.
SPECIAL COMMITTEE TO DEVELOP AN ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN STATEMENT FOR GOSHEN COLLEGE
- Arlene Mark
- Dwain Hartzler
- Marvin Bartel
- Dot Corson
- Myrl Nofziger
- Steven Graber
- John Yordy
- Ruth Gunden
- Suelyn Lee
- Marty Kelley
- Daryl Wenger
- Ann Graber
- Larry Yoder
- Abner Hershberger
- Beth Rieth
- Bill Zuercher
- Doug Abromski
- LeRoy Troyer
