Student Development Center at Florida Polytechnic University
Elegant and resolute, the Student Development Center (SDC) portrays the creative spirit and interactive vibe of a blooming academic and research community located in an emerging technology corridor. The project embraced the opportunity to advance the growth and unique sense of place of Florida Polytechnic University (FPU), recently established distinction via Santiago Calatrava’s Innovation, Science, and Technology (IST).
The project began with graphic analysis of juxtaposed imagery that included 1) the human body in active recreation, 2) STEM designs, 3) the University’s brand & architecture, and 4) icons of Lakeland / Central Florida. A commonly repeated anthropomorphic gesture of outstretched arms implied the idea of “wings”. Wings became a prevailing form found in the Phoenix (Florida Poly’s Mascot), the Swan (Lakeland’s iconic citizens), and examples of applied STEM (aircraft, spacecraft, drones). The design team architecturalized these inspirational forms through the lens of origami, a tradition of making (with icons of paper cranes and airplanes) with geometry, mathematics, and technical exactness that emulates the University’s mission.
With an architectural program directly linked to the student body, the Student Development Center successfully reflects the dynamic student culture that recently played an active role in the selection and development process of the university’s mascot. Imagery and connotations of the phoenix are not only emblematic of the university’s research-focused scholastic vision, but also metaphorically symbolize the building’s focus on health and wellness. Exercise activities initiate a phoenix-like “regeneration and renewal” through personal physical fitness during periodic intermissions of academic endeavors.
Sustainability Narrative
The project’s techtonics delineate a symmetry that echos forms from nature and respects both Calatrava’s immediate context, but also characteristic of Frank Lloyd Wright’s nearby work at Florida Southern College. In a biomimic abstraction of aerodynamics, the butterfly-roof “wings” direct rainwater to celebrated spouts supporting rain gardens below. Both exterior form and interior space are expressed through a cohesive architectural and structural approach. Interior spaces are flooded with natural light and are presented with a simple and clear organization. An honest material pallet of concrete, glass, steel, and monochromatic finishes is balanced with natural wood and stone interior accents.
Passive energy savings are captured via a true north/south solar orientation and exaggerated roof overhangs on all sides. The northern façade incorporates strategically located glazing that minimizes direct solar heat gain and glare prevalent in the subtropical climate. Views to the exterior campus are framed to capture views toward the preserved grand oaks to the north that support passive recreation. The upper roof shades the 30-foot future rock-climbing wall outside the main entry and maximizes future opportunities for photovoltaic on-site renewable solar energy. The building and lap pool’s HVAC demand is met through a joint-use open-loop geothermal heat pump system.
