Creating Connections at Columbia University

A seven-story building for the nursing school at the Columbia University Medical Center campus in upper Manhattan will begin construction later this year. The building will provide 65 percent more space than the school’s current location.

Densely programmed to alternate educational areas with spaces for community outreach, the building will accommodate various styles of teaching and learning with specialized functions—state-of-the-art simulation technology, research facilities, and student and faculty spaces. The building is designed to achieve LEED silver certification.

The design conceptualizes the building as a “town square” that anchors the medical campus, while also activating the street level and extending activity into the community. Program elements are organized and stacked in relation to requirements for public access and natural lighting.

Creating connections and achieving flow were key design elements. Starting in the lobby, a dynamic circulation “ribbon” connects all floors vertically within the school’s conference and informal meeting/breakout spaces.

The project was completed by the joint venture of FXFOWLE (New York City) and CO Architects (Los Angeles).