UK Health Science Classroom
Lexington, Kentucky

This project consisted of one large assembly classroom and an adjacent corridor space to accommodate the increasing student enrollment of the College of Dentistry and the College of Medicine. The classroom design responds to the strict technological demands of the client and the existing structure of the building.
Functionality of the space is achieved with the use of a structured seating arrangement. The rows of seating occur on tiers to provide good site lines and ample space for collaboration between students. The movement of the geometry in the room provides a central focus on the stationary podium for the presenter. Continuing the aesthetics of the design, strong curvilinear soffits and a linear ceiling grid dissolve the existing geometry of the amphitheatre building shell. And, electronic equipment is located in the soffits to allow all viewers to appreciate the content and presentation without obstructing views. Contemporary finishes like perforated metal ceiling and wood panels contrast the traditional elements of the existing building.
Fusing functionality and inventive design created challenges such as code compliance for a new program into an existing space, coordination of client selected furniture with electrical infrastructure in the slab, creating accessible views for all students, as well as incorporating sophisticated presentation equipment.

Owner: University of Kentucky
Fit-Up: 3,200 square feet
Final Construction Cost: $654,000
Contractor: MP Kelly