The Aspen Institute (Doerr-Hosier Center)
Aspen, CO
Emphasizing long term relevance as a central sustainable design principle, this modernist building received the first LEED Gold rating in its region. While respecting the scale and modulation of the surrounding architecture and landscape, this site sensitive structure brings a fresh voice to the Bauhaus inspired, historically designated surrounding campus.
As a conference center, this project is a noteworthy departure from the typically dark and fatiguing “ballroom meeting and breakout rooms” solution. This design focuses on a strong connection to nature, where all meeting and gathering spaces open to adjacent terraces and views. Users love this facility and have experienced the sense of energy created by the free flowing floor plan, day lighting, and elements of Feng Shui inspiration.
The skin of pre-cast concrete, zinc, steel, and glass relates to the materials of the campus and provides for a low maintenance exterior. Tented roof terraces add usable square footage for the summer months and give the building an added seasonal dimension.
Architect and artist have worked in collaboration to create a “Dynamic Modernism” – a place where structure, nature, and the individual are co-dependent; a place where structure and sculpture are inseparable.
