BRW ARCHITECTS | HIGHER EDUCATION
Contents 01
BRW Architects
02 03 04 05
Learning Environments
06
Sports & Athletics
07
Libraries
08
Industrial Workforce
09
Technology Training
10
Student Life
11
Campus Support Spaces
12
Adaptive Reuse
Theater Arts Music Health Sciences
01 BRW Architects is focused on creating environments that nurture potential. We design spaces that foster the transformation of passion into the discoveries and innovations that shape our future.
4 | Higher Education
We’ve been FOCUSED ON WHAT MATTERS in Higher Education for over 36 years.
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Our Vision BRW believes that personal relationships and collaboration are vital to the design of exceptional architecture. They are essential to understanding the vision of the client, incorporating the needs of the campus, and working with the team of people involved in each unique project. At the center of who we are, is the belief that creating successful team dynamics yields creative and innovative solutions. Our work is a reflection of the value we place on people; whether it is the client, the student, or the design and construction team. It is with this in mind that we strive to create architecture that impacts both people and the environment in a positive way.
6 | Higher Education
WE DESIGN FOR YOU Brown Reynolds Watford Architects is a creative architecture and planning firm that devises innovative solutions by emphasizing communication and collaboration throughout the design process. With offices in Dallas, College Station, Houston and San Francisco, BRW has built a powerful portfolio of projects that demonstrates our commitment to meeting and exceeding client expectations while producing quality design.
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02
Learning Environments
Engineering and Robotics Lab
Virtual Reality Learning
10 | Higher Education
Flexible Classroom
Learning Environments Static, structured classrooms are part of a bygone era. Technology, blended learning, and evolving pedagogy are changing the look, feel, and performance of the educational landscape. Flexible spaces that adapt to the unique demands of individual course offerings and respond to rapidly evolving teaching and learning models are the new standard. Learning environments are now tech-integrated, conducive to interdisciplinary instruction, foster collaborative learning, and optimize the experience for both students and faculty. These facilities are integral in recruiting and retaining both students and faculty in an increasingly competitive arena.
BRW truly listened to our dreams and our vision: Architecturally they responded in a magnificent way. Felicitas “Fela” Alfaro
Executive Dean of Student and Enrollment El Centro College West Campus Planning Committee Chair
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Arts & Humanities Building Texas A&M University College Station, TX
BRW is FOCUSED ON… Flexible spaces that respond to a variety of teaching methods and learning styles. Tech-smart environments and furnishings that support the increasing role personal technology plays in higher education. Informal gathering spaces that provide for collaboration and social interaction. Durable environments that address student demands and respect institutional budgets. Facilities that attract and retain students and faculty. ...WHAT MATTERS in the classrooms of the future.
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03
Theater Arts
Black Box Theatre
Theatrical Rehearsal
Costume Shop
Theater Arts Theater arts programs often play a role that stretches beyond their instructional purpose. Academic performance facilities house a variety of theater types, rehearsal spaces, lighting labs, scene shops, costume shops, and CADD labs for educational use that also serve as resources for a broader, interdisciplinary populace. They attract professional teaching talent, provide an outlet for high-quality performances, and serve as a bridge between the campus and the surrounding community. Additionally, performing arts facilities have the potential to furnish the institution with a means of revenue by serving as a venue for concerts and productions open to the public. Frequently designed as “gateway” facilities, these important structures have a public face that is inviting to prospective students, alumni, and potential donors.
BRW Architects and Craig Reynolds […] was with us every step of the way and really helped us understand not just what we wanted, but what we needed. Dr. Noel Zahler
Academic Dean J.T. & Margaret Talkington College of Visual & Performing Arts Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas
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Maedgen Theatre Texas Tech University Lubbock, TX
BRW is FOCUSED ON… State-of-the-art performance spaces that mirror multiple professional environments. Flexible rehearsal areas that simulate varying performance venues and support simultaneous performances. Design that reduces division between front and back of house; facilitates an integrated, collaborative environment for theater arts education; and provides adequate space to stage the art. Finishes that optimize the function of the space, address acoustical requirements, accomplish the aesthetics for performance, and are easily maintained. Architecture that showcases the institution, inspires students and faculty, and creates connection with the community. Environments that encourage creativity and enhance critical thinking through exposure to the arts. ...WHAT MATTERS in academic performance space.
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The opening of the MAC will always remain as a highlight of my career at Texas A&M. I cannot imagine it having gone any better. […] Thank you again for all of your efforts involved with this project. Dr. Timothy Rhea
Director of Bands & Music Texas A&M University
04
Music
Individual Practice
Ensemble Rehearsal
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Concert Hall
Rehearsal Room
Music Facilities for performing arts are the nerve center of a campus and an asset to the surrounding community. As vibrant centers for creative expression, these complex facilities act as gathering spaces for students and faculty and create dynamic links to the public they serve. Through the lens of fine arts, they provide opportunities for active learning and enhanced training in high-tech environments such as rigging, sound, and lighting systems. While musicians and performing artists share many of the same special requirements, truly impressive educational facilities achieve the ambitions of the specific art form with architecture and acoustics. Flexible staging and acoustics design can accommodate a variety of musical needs – ranging from large orchestras to small choral groups – in a single venue.
The acoustics in the Concert Hall are so good, the audience can hear what the performer is thinking. Dr. Chris White
Department Head (Retired), Music Director Texas A&M University Commerce
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Music Activities Center Texas A&M University College Station, TX
BRW is FOCUSED ON… Finely-tuned spaces where students can hone their craft in group and individual settings. Acoustics that respond to the wide range of reverberation and absorption requirements of different ensembles. Hearing health and the importance of responsible acoustical design and appropriately sized rehearsal and performance space. Classroom, rehearsal and performance spaces that are designed with the learning process in mind. Continuing campus-based musical traditions. Mechanical systems that promote environmental health without disrupting critical listening or creating distraction during practices and performances. ...WHAT MATTERS in music education.
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This project had been a dream for many former students and university leaders for a long time. Its successful completion is a testament to the tenacity of those individuals and the truly collaborative spirit of the BRW team. Tom Reber
Associate Vice President for Student Affairs Texas A&M University
05
Health Science
Open Operatory
Sterilization
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Nursing Skills
Health Sciences A shortage of talent and the shift towards team-based patient care are influencing health science pedagogy. Likewise, the demand for training and the use of standardized patients and high fidelity patient simulators are driving the design of learning spaces. Today’s health science facilities must support a diverse set of functions and objectives. Collaborative learning, patientcentered instruction, and environments that mimic real health care situations are common practice. Creating spaces that are easy for teachers and students to use, that maximize current learning objectives, and adapt to emerging technology are critical to the success of these complex facilities. Through responsive design, health science facilities act to bring people together, promote exploration, and encourage collaboration.
Could any of us have ever imagined a more spectacular setting for patient care and dental education? Our students, faculty and staff will flourish in this incredible environment. Dr. Lawrence E. Wolinsky
College of Dentistry Dean Texas A&M University Health Science Center | College of Dentistry
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College of Dentistry
Texas A&M Health Science Center Dallas, TX
BRW is FOCUSED ON… High fidelity clinical settings that support specific learning objectives. Training environments that facilitate instruction and encourage collaboration among students. Debriefing spaces for student-faculty interaction and reflection. Real-world environments that respect patient privacy, enhance practical training and serve the community. Flexible classroom spaces that promote synergy and leverage shared resources. Dedicated places that promote teamwork among interprofessional faculty and provide space to prepare, reflect and mentor future health care providers. ...WHAT MATTERS in health sciences education.
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I LOVE IT! You guys have knocked it out of the park on this one. I am so proud of what we will be able to offer our patients, students, and staff. I’ve got bragging rights at every dental meeting I go to for the rest of my life. Dr. Stephen J. Griffin, D.D.S.
Associate Dean, Clinical Affairs Texas A&M University, College of Dentistry
06
Sports & Athletics
NCAA Soccer Stadium
Locker Room
40 | Higher Education
NCAA Track & Soccer Complex
Weight Room
Sports & Athletics School sports and athletics programs create school spirit, foster common connections between disparate groups and promote alumni engagement. With 40% of students citing campus social atmosphere as key factor in school selection, athletics and sports events play an important role in drawing the attention of prospective students as well. Student athletes are attracted to state-of-the-art facilities that address the whole athlete – from training and competition to recovery. College and University systems need these structures to serve more than one purpose. Blending academics, entrepreneurship, health sciences, and care delivery into one dynamic facility that serves multiple purposes for athletes, coaches, the campus, and the community.
When difficult decisions had to be made, BRW provided expertise backed by research, helping the team reach the right decision for UNTS and the project. Terri Pierce RID NCIDQ, LEED AP ID+C
Project Manager | University of North Texas System Facilities Design & Construction
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Soccer, Track & Field Complex University of North Texas Denton, TX
BRW is FOCUSED ON… Training and competition venues that promote peak performance through equipment and playing surface selections and spaces that address needs of the whole athlete. Creative built solutions that advance a holistic approach to wellness and human performance. Comfortable and inviting facilities that provide catalyst for school pride and contribute to the campus ‘brand’ and institutional identity. Venues that are designed to generation revenue through games and events, sponsorships beyond school programs. Design that respects the budget, appreciates the importance of the project schedule, is self-sustaining and built to last. ...WHAT MATTERS in excellence in athletics facilities.
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07
Libraries
Service Point
Conservation/Preservation
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Maker Space
Libraries Once a place dedicated to silence and solitary study, today’s library is a place of experiential and collaborative learning. In addition to books and periodicals, the library is now home to dedicated maker spaces, innovation zones, and media creation studios. This combination of spaces creates a vibrant experience that is friendly and welcoming to both academics and non-academics alike. Managing digital resources and spreading digital fluency are new core responsibilities of academic libraries. Support spaces need to be welcoming to both students and members of the broader community. The need for concentration and uninterrupted study remain essential elements, but functionality and technology are driving the academic library of the future.
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Evans Library & Library Annex Texas A&M University College Station, TX
BRW is FOCUSED ON… Innovative facilities that support a variety of activities and incorporate collaboration areas, maker space, media creation & editing graphics support areas. Fresh and inviting entry spaces that engage and communicate the values and character of the institution. Areas dedicated to preservation and conservation of library collections. Safe and secure environments with durable and flexible furnishings that allow for spontaneous reconfiguration of the space. Quiet spaces that respond to both acoustic and visual sensibilities and support student and staff needs for focus, concentration, and contemplation. Consultation spaces that are technology-rich, flexible and inclusive with options such as self-service kiosks. ...WHAT MATTERS in modern academic libraries. brwarch.com | 49
08
Industrial Workforce
Fabrication Lab
High-Bay Space
52 | Higher Education
CNC Lab
Industrial Workforce The rise of emerging technologies is transforming America’s job market and raising concerns over an insufficiently trained labor force. Colleges and universities are responding accordingly, expanding their offerings to address the growing demand for shorter-term, certified or degreed skills development programs. Many of these curricula require highly specialized learning environments that accommodate the latest technology found in industry. The most successful workforce development centers address the needs of local employers and create potential partnering opportunities within those sectors – creating a win-win for both the institution and the overall community.
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Workforce Center Lone Star College Cy-Fair Cypress, TX
BRW is FOCUSED ON… Student centered environments that address the needs of a diverse array of students – from those engaged in first time training to non-traditional students pursuing continuing education and skills transitioning. Modern facilities with state-of-the-art technology and current real-world environments. Built environments that promote collaboration and partnership with local industries. Secure buildings that provide safe access and egress for students, faculty and staff involved in evening programs. ...WHAT MATTERS in successful workforce development.
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09
Technology Training
Computer Lab & Collaboration Area
Tutorial Lab
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Engineering Lab
Visualization Studio
Technology Training Recognizing the benefits of reaching beyond traditional 4-year degree programs, an increasing number of higher education institutions are establishing industry-focused training programs on their campuses. The technology industry is an economic sector faced with significant training challenges due to the continuous and rapid change that is the very nature of the business. Colleges and universities are responding to the demand for a constantly evolving workforce, and the influence it is having on the learning environment. To keep up with the increasing need for skilled workers and ever-changing technology, training environments must be state-of-the-art and replicate a variety of realistic scenarios. Additionally, they must be flexible and responsive to rapid technological advances and the evolving demands of the industries they support.
The result is a building that Lone Star is very proud of-the layout is clean and ordered, the visual impact is striking, the design vocabulary is matched to the image, to the message that we wanted to convey. As is appropriate for the design emphasis, technology is well-integrated and successfully throughout the building. Barry A. Parks
Senior Project Director, Facilities & Construction Lone Star College
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Westway Park Technology Center Lone Star College Cy-Fair Houston, TX
BRW is FOCUSED ON… Workstations that provide for real-world simulation and scenario testing. Tech-smart environments and furnishings that supply ample power and connectivity. Spatial and environmental accommodations for isolated networks that facilitate active learning and experimentation without risk of impact to other campus services. Flexible spaces that make use of movable partitions, modular furnishings that allow for easy reconfiguration to accommodate a variety of group learning sizes. Facilities that have a distributed, robust, and flexible IT infrastructure that allows technological access in all spaces. ...WHAT MATTERS in technology training.
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10
Student Life
Student Lounge
University Center
64 | Higher Education
Student Lounge
Student Life Developing the capacity to live, lead, and participate is not a purely cognitive exercise. Much of it is experiential. The programs, experiences, and challenges students have on campus contribute to the sum of their education and prepare them for post-academic life. Many campus facilities have the ability to expose students to individuals and ideas that differ from their own. And while recreation centers, residential buildings, and dining halls do not replace the classroom, the educational purpose and intentional learning designed into facilities specifically geared toward enhancing student life must be considered and responsibly developed to serve the institution’s mission.
Of particular note regarding BRW, is the fact that their organizational structure is fully integrated, meaning you do not see the ‘top brass’ at the beginning of the project, and then end up with less seasoned, lower ranking team members left to execute the ‘nuts and bolts’ details of design on the project, with the top leadership nowhere to be found. Bill Poole
Assistant Vice President (Ret.), UTA Facilities University of Texas at Arlington
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University Center
University of Texas at Arlington Arlington, TX
BRW is FOCUSED ON… Extracurricular amenities that promote whole-student wellness and positive social interaction. Gathering spaces that create opportunities for spontaneous personal connection. Places that accommodate a variety of needs that support student success. Non-academic facilities that encourage emotional and social development. Built environments that differentiate the campus and reflect the values of the institution. Architecture that enriches the campus experience and resonates with current and future students. ...WHAT MATTERS in the total student experience.
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11
Campus Support Services
Student Lounge & Reception
Reception
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University Center
Campus Support Services Addressing the whole student and providing a framework that supports success across the board leads to a more satisfying and complete higher education experience. Campuses are adapting specific aims, missions, and objectives to address this goal. From an academic advisor helping freshmen chart their course for scholastic success, to a career counselor working with grad students to identify professional next-steps, student support services have significant influence on academic outcomes. The built environment is an integral component of the student support infrastructure, serving to facilitate use of campus services, providing space for student wellbeing and personal development, and increasing the odds for successful transition from college to real life.
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Student Support Services Building
Texas A&M University-Kingsville Kingsville, TX
BRW is FOCUSED ON… Support spaces that foster student success by responding to the diverse learning needs found on campuses today. Built environments that enable students to easily access the resources they need to support their educational, recreational and social needs. Identifiable and inviting spaces that serve as one-stop service hubs for students seeking academic guidance, financial services, tutoring, etc. Creation of a gateway building that positively impacts the visitors’ experience as they enter the campus. ...WHAT MATTERS in supporting student success.
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From the outset, this project has been an enjoyable partnership. As we progressed through the programming, design, and value engineering phases it was obvious to me that the architects from BRW were going to extraordinary lengths to ensure the success of the project. Dr. Chris D. White
Former Head of Music Department Texas A&M University-Commerce
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Adaptive Reuse
Transformation
Historic Restoration
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Innovation Lab
Adaptive Reuse Over time, building systems fail, materials become worn and ways of use become outdated. Many of the buildings found on campuses were constructed decades ago and are now in significant need of repair. While some buildings reach the end of their useful life and must be replaced, renovating existing facilities is often more financially feasible. Building reuse can be an efficient, cost effective, and environmentally responsible way of breathing new life into older resources and recovering under-programmed space. Often, reclaimed areas become destinations, creating centers of activity and synergy between the old and the new, bringing vibrancy to areas that were previously lacking vitality.
I had a chance to see San Jacinto Memorial Building today. The building is going to be “drop dead gorgeous”! Inside and out! You all can be filled with so much pride for this fabulous restoration. Dr. Kathleen Fleming
Executive Director of Administrative Services Houston Community College | San Jacinto Memorial Building
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Francis Hall
Texas A&M University Construction Science Department College Station, TX
BRW is FOCUSED ON… The importance of architectural heritage and the role it plays in campus identity. Modern learning environments that respect, celebrate and maintain campus traditions. Transforming existing building structures into innovative spaces and giving new life to antiquated architecture. Updated facilities that are environmentally friendly, energy efficient and cost effective. ...WHAT MATTERS in revitalizing campus resources.
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Services Provided
Accessibility (ADA) Study Architecture Building Design Building Information Modeling (BIM) Code Analysis Comprehensive Facility Study Construction Administration Construction Documentation Cost Evaluation Feasibility Study
Furnishing Selection & Procurement Interior Design Landscape Architecture Lighting Design Needs Assessment Renovations | Additions Site Master Planning | Analysis Space Programming Sustainable Design (LEED) Programming and Planning
BRW has received more than 50 awards over the past three decades from our portfolio of 26 higher education campuses. To learn more about our higher education projects, clients and awards, please visit: www.brwarch.com Several projects done in association with the following firms:
Kahler Slater HGA Architects
HBM Architects Richter Architects
DALLAS 3535 Travis Street Suite 250 Dallas, TX 75204 214.528.8704
COLLEGE STATION 175 Century Square Drive Suite 350 College Station, TX 77840 979.694.1791
HOUSTON 4501 Magnolia Cove Drive Suite 250 Houston, TX 77345 281.361.3800
SAN FRANCISCO 1620 Montgomery Street Suite 320 San Francisco, CA 94111 415.749.2670
www.brwarch.com