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It’s long overdue, according to many observers. But some also say that the new University of Miami School of Architecture design studio building isn’t shaping up to be what anyone had expected.
Still, hopes are high. And if nothing else, everyone is excited about a new, more modern place to study and work.
Although not everyone is happy with the design, most everyone is happy about an improvement.
Critics are Concerned About the Building’s Appearance
The University of Miami at Coral Gables has a certain appearance. And while the new building plans include more modern construction, some believe that the appearance is off-putting. First-year student, Alex Underwood, told the Miami Hurricane student newspaper that he believes it “doesn’t look inviting” because of the concrete design.
It’s different, for sure, particularly the roof. It almost gives the impression of a large concrete box with a piece of paper on resting on top, and one corner of the paper drooping down over the side
Max Erickson, a first year architecture student, explained to the newspaper that his concern was that the building won’t fit in with the rest of the campus. He also points out what he calls design issues with the “weird, flat, drooping roof.”
With a brand new look and state-of-the-art technology, the Miami school could attract more students.
Students Look Forward to Other Improvements
If students aren’t thrilled with the appearance, they make up for it in enthusiasm for the project as a whole. The student newspaper says its state-of-the-art facilities include a new computer lab, presentation areas, a lounge, and work spaces that are “designed for digital production.”
Director of Communications, Annette Gallagher, explained that tools in the new building will be better versions of what they had before. Where some tools remain basically the same, the technology surrounding them keeps improving.
A lack of resources was a persistent problem before. Students struggled to access the tools that they needed, and often resorted to making do with whatever they could find. The new facilities should change all of that.
Erin Hickey, a second-year student, appears to support the new building. She explained that although the current building is historic, it’s also outdated and not very impressive. She believes that leaves others with a negative impression of the School of Architecture.
Architecture can’t please everyone in every way, but there’s more to any building than a facade. That’s proven by the way students who don’t like the looks on the outside are anxiously awaiting the new interior facilities, which will make their education better and more efficient.
While the feelings are mixed, at best, about the proposed appearance of the new Miami University School of Architecture design studio, the vibe about the project is generally positive. With donations from Coastal Construction hovering close to $3.5 million, the project is scheduled for a completion date of spring 2917.
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