E X P L O R A T O R Y H A L L
QUICK NOTES
DESIGNED BY: Perkins + Will
LOCATION: Fairfax, VA
TYPE: Campus Design
YEAR DESIGNED: 2013
NOTABLE DESIGN ELEMENTS: Amphitheater and planting selection
long story short
The new Science and Technology Renovation and Addition, a part of the Exploratory Hall Site at George Mason University, is one of the newer additions to the campus’ exciting space. Designed by Perkins + Will, this site’s outstanding elements include a geology garden, an amphitheater, and an element of colorful surprise.
Rows of Miscanthus ‘Morning Light’ creating a soft wall between the amphitheater and the spaces beyond.
once upon a time
Exploratory Hall has been a marriage of architecture and landscape architecture in creating a truly unique space on campus. A significant educational building, Exploratory Hall is an important renovation on campus as it not only often hosts STEM programs and gatherings, but also continues to serve as a space not just unique to the daily contributions to the University but useful in teaching and learning of science.
Key features of the project include a significant diagonal artery path through the addition connecting architecture and interior design with the landscape as well as a series of exterior spaces with flexible programmatic functions to accommodate a wide array of educational activities including a front terrace to the Science and Technology II Building and the aforementioned amphitheater and geology garden.
Looking directly at the first row of Miscanthus ‘Morning Light’ facing away from the amphitheater.
Pathway between the layers of Miscanthus ‘Morning Light’.
The selection of Miscanthus ‘Morning Light” is an absolute delight and surprise as one approaches the amphitheater, not to that the location and number of the plant create a soft ‘wall’ for when the amphitheater may be in use. The unique element of height and color of this plant creates a very pleasant transition between the main corridors. Furthermore, the tall and gentle nature of Miscanthus accompanies slow movement of individuals along the steps, creating a memorable walk.
A low point on the site, the stepped amphitheater combined with lawn, creates an opportunity for rainwater to slowdown prior to being directed to the drainage at the bottom of the steps.
Site plan of Exploratory Hall at George Mason University
Image C/O: Perkins + Will
Sources:
https://www2.gmu.edu/news/1007
** All photos by author unless otherwise noted.