Colorado Real Estate Journal - January 6, 2016
A design partnership between Semple Brown and Handprint Architecture was selected by the University of Northern Colorado to design its new signature building on campus. As designers of the project, the two firms will work together to bring their experience in higher education and performing arts to the 114,000-square-foot, $73.6 million Campus Commons project. “The needs and expectations of college students have changed significantly over the past decade, and the Campus Commons will respond to these changes,” said UNC Provost Robbyn Wacker. “This building will position UNC to deliver on its student promise of first-rate academic programs, customized learning opportunities and individual support well into the future.” Funded through a combination of state capital funds, bonds supported by a student capital fee and private donor gifts, the Campus Commons will showcase UNC's world-class music and musical theater programs while providing a gateway to the university. The project will include a 600-seat performance venue, 400-seat multiuse auditorium, art gallery and café. “UNC’s Campus Commons project presents the kind of unique challenge that really inspires our designers,” said Chris Wineman, principal of Semple Brown. “Our longstanding relationship with Handprint Architecture, and UNC faculty and staff, will help assure that this project becomes a model of extraordinary innovation and leadership. The spatial integration of student services, community engagement, performance and exhibition, and student recruitment will also create a dynamic new front door for the campus.” “Our firm is thrilled to continue with the next phase of this unprecedented project,” said Tania Salgado, principal of Handprint Architecture, the principal in charge of UNC's program development effort in 2014. “This new gateway building will celebrate the rich history and uniqueness of the university. Because our task as designers is to create a space that inspires and celebrates collaboration, the Commons will be an approachable, welcoming, interactive place that fosters student success and heightened synergy amongst the diverse users within.” The Campus Commons, to be located south of the university center near the intersection of 11th Avenue and 22nd Street in Greeley, will be designed to work in tandem with the rest of the UNC campus. Construction is scheduled to begin in the fall.