Fred Brown Hall Reimagined
A reexamination of American campus housing
Second Year Graduate Architecture Integrations Studio | Taught by Tricia Stuth | Spring 2023
Team: Keith Coffindaffer, Andrew Keys, Kathryn Baddorf
A wall dividing our campus.
The current Fred Brown Hall, a student dormitory on the campus of the University of Tennessee, stands as a large monolithic divider of public spaces.
This project investigates alternative built forms and functions for this site, while encouraging open discussion on program and community engagement to build more appealing, inviting, and inclusive spaces.
The implementation of a new campus arboretum, utilizing existing flora on site and planting more native trees, further encourages and activates the site.
easier site access: south to north, 100% walkable line of section
Reviving the campus core
The arboretum serves as both a break from the urbanity of UT’s Knoxville campus and a grounding element to its place in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains.
Natural black slate tiles and transparent glass serve to further incline visitation and a sense of belonging in the Smokies.
Students can visit the Hopecote center to read and enjoy a coffee within the arboretum, the open art gallery in the northwest wing, and restaurants within the newly redesigned Fred Brown Hall - all programs to invite and serve the students and faculty of the University of Tennessee.
existing condition - site is avoided
the Fred Brown wall
better connection, healthier site
open space inventory
surrounding area programs
center wing schematic section
More sustainable for Knoxville
Knoxville is situated in a high rainfall area and deals with high levels of urban runoff pollution as a result. Severe storms can overload the local drainage, and urban areas tend to lack green spaces that would reduce runoff volumes by allowing infiltration into the soil.
This reimagined site celebrates the existing green space and adds even more, while also adding underground pipe infrastructure for excess delivery.
The addition of green roof systems to each wing further accentuate the commitment to handle all stormwater received on-site to reduce UT’s total runoff.
HVAC overview
4 pipe hydronic system layout
mechanical room areas and tonnages