Gothic meets the 21st century in the preliminary architectural designs for the University's new additions.
Two major projects, Whitman College and the science library, are scheduled to begin construction in early 2004.
Whitman College, located between Baker Rink and Dillon Gym, will follow the traditional Gothic style prevalent throughout campus. The science building, which will be at the corner of Washington Road and Ivy Lane, will use primarily metal and glass in its modern design, the University has announced.
Demetrios Porphyrios GS '80, the architect for Whitman College, and Frank Gehry, the architect for the science building, submitted their initial plans to the Committee on Grounds and Buildings in September. The committee has reacted positively to the plans.
"In both cases they felt that the schematic designs were very interesting, and they authorized further study into determining if it will work out and be within budget," said Jon Hlafter '61, director of physical planning.
The issue of cost remains at the forefront for the design team. The budget for Whitman College is $100 million, and the science building is priced at $60 million.
"Right now both projects are estimated to be about 25 percent over budget, and now we're trying to bring them back on line. We are getting closer," Hlafter said.
According to the preliminary plans, Whitman College will feature three courtyards encompassed in its 275,000-square-foot design. Structurally, the buildings will have typical Gothic elements such as slate roofs and stone walls.
However, the University's commitment to adhere to tradition has created the greatest problem in the effort to complete the project.
"There is a concern that if we're trying to duplicate the kind of buildings built for the college about a hundred years ago that we should do it in the same degree of quality," Hlafter said. "However, by staying true to historical styles, such as thick masonry walls as opposed to paper thin-steel structures, there will be a greater financial cost."
Completely abandoning past designs, Gehry's plans for the new science building are infused with innovative structural elements. Because of its strikingly different style from the Whitman College, there are architectural concerns unique to the building.
"The science library is an usual design as one might expect from Gehry, so it is harder for any group to conceptualize the type of spaces Gehry is envisioning," Hlafter said. Other issues include the feasibility of building maintenance, such as the cleaning of high windows.
Most of the residential colleges on campus were never designed for their current purpose and were adapted to serve as residences. "Even Wilson College, which was originally intended to be a grouping of dormitories, was not designed with the full range of programs essential to a residential college," Hlafter said.
Whitman College will set a precedent for future architectural construction on campus, he said.
"Whitman College will be the first residential college created after an extensive discussion on what should go into college," Hlafter said.
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