Sakasis Syracuse Campus Rework
Image curtsy of Sasaki
In 2017, Sasaki, one of Boston's leading architectural firms, unveiled a proposed redesign for Syracuse University’s campus. This ambitious rework aimed to enhance the university’s functionality and campus experience. Key elements of the design included connecting Walnut Park to Waverly Avenue via the first floor of Bird Library, adding an exterior seating area adjacent to the Shine Student Center, constructing several new student dormitories, expanding the JMA Dome, and adding to the Barnes Athletic Center, among many other improvements. This blog will explore the strengths and challenges of this redesign, offering a critical analysis of how these changes might shape the future of Syracuse University’s campus.
Campus Transparency
One of the most exciting features of the redesign is the proposal to connect Walnut Park to Waverly Avenue via the first floor of Bird Library. As a student who frequently moves between the the two spaces, I often find myself using bird library as a sort of passthrough as apposed to its intended use, this connection immediately caught my attention from a practical standpoint. The first floor of Bird Library is already a central hub, with students and faculty constantly walking in and out, it hosts a cafe, seating area, printing station, computer lab ect. often creating crowding as a passthrough, almost like an open street. Integrating the building into a more seamless, open pedestrian flow could alleviate congestion, creating a more open campus atmosphere.
However, while the idea of connecting these two areas seems like a great way to streamline campus navigation, I do have concerns about the practicality of this redesign from a construction and aesthetic stadpoint. Bird Library is a 20th century brutalist style and is already a historic building, and such a substantial alteration might risk disrupting the library’s academic ambiance. The quiet, reflective nature of the space is a hallmark for many students including myself, and merging it with high-traffic areas could detract from its function as a study sanctuary. Careful planning would be needed to maintain its integrity as a library while accommodating more foot traffic.
One suggestion, if possible, could be to turn the first floor into a sort of Piloti inspired floor. Pilotis are slender columns that elevate a building off the ground, creating open space beneath. This design principle frees up the ground level for activities like gardens or pathways, allows for better natural light and ventilation, and enables more flexible, open interior layouts. Used in iconic works like the Villa Savoye, pilotis were central to Le Corbusier's modernist vision, emphasizing functionality, transparency, and a harmonious relationship between the building and its surroundings.
Meeting the Growing Demand of Student housing
Another key element of the redesign is the construction of several new dormitories, which is something I strongly support. Having lived in campus housing for the past two semesters, I can confidently say there is a pressing need for more modern, spacious dorms. Many of the current residences, while functional, are outdated and overcrowded. Throughout my time at Syracuse, I’ve lived on South Campus, which serves as the primary housing area for sophomores. I’ve come to realize that this is largely due to the limited availability of living spaces closer to Main Campus. As a South Campus resident, I can’t overstate the inconvenience of being so far removed from campus activities. When late-night events take place on Main Campus, especially during the cold winter months, getting there by bus can be a challenge, given the infrequent schedules. The addition of new dormitories, ideally closer to Main Campus, would address this issue, providing students with more convenient and comfortable living options. This would not only improve our daily commute but also enhance our overall academic and social experiences.
That said, the location of the proposed dormitories could be a double-edged sword. While they would certainly improve housing accessibility, they could also lead to more congestion on already-busy parts of campus. If these new buildings are not strategically placed, they could negatively impact the overall flow of student life, creating pockets of overcrowding in certain areas. Such as Walnut ave or Walnut park. It would be crucial to ensure that these dorms are distributed in a way that complements other spaces and doesn’t isolate students from the broader campus community.
The Shine Student Center and Outdoor Space
The addition of an exterior seating area adjacent to the Shine Student Center is a much-needed addition. As it stands, the area around and inside the Shine Center can often feel cramped, especially during peak hours. I often find it difficult to secure seating in schine during these hours, and an additional seating arrangement would be nice. An expanded outdoor seating space would provide students with a more comfortable environment to relax, study, and socialize. Given Syracuse's long winters, the additional seating could also incorporate features like heating elements or weather-resistant furniture to make it usable year-round, an idea that seems especially relevant as we try to extend outdoor social spaces beyond just the warmer months.
On the flip side, while outdoor seating is a great way to create a welcoming and vibrant atmosphere, there’s potential for congestion in the walkway next to the Syracuse sign. As someone who frequently uses this path to get to Shine or the bus stop, I can see how placing seating in the middle of this busy route could disrupt the flow of foot traffic and create bottlenecks. This could make it more difficult for students to navigate the area efficiently, especially during peak times.
Expansion of the JMA Dome and Barnes Athletic Center
The expansion of the JMA Dome and the Barnes Athletic Center represents an exciting opportunity to boost the university’s athletic capabilities and school spirit. As someone who loves being at the football games and uses the athletic facilities regularly, the promise of a larger, more modern JMA Dome is something I wholeheartedly support. A bigger arena would not only enhance the experience of fans but also create a stronger sense of pride among students. Additionally, expanding the Barnes Athletic Center could improve fitness facilities, offering students better access to workout spaces that are in high demand.
However, while these expansions would certainly elevate the student experience, there is a risk that they could shift the focus too heavily toward athletics, potentially overshadowing the university’s academic mission. As someone who spends the majority of my time in academic spaces, I’d like to see these athletic expansions complement, rather than detract from, the investment in academic and social spaces elsewhere on campus. Prioritizing a balance between academics and athletics will be key. The schools majority endowment is funded by the athletic department and is understandably why. Go Cuse.
Challenges of Maintaining Campus Character
While the proposed redesign brings many exciting possibilities, there are certain risks associated with such significant changes. Syracuse University’s campus is known for its distinctive blend of old and new architecture, with iconic buildings that have been integral to student life for decades. Overhauling parts of this historic campus risks losing some of the unique charm and identity that make Syracuse special. The VPAs Romanesque Revival and Hall of Languages second empire style are buildings that are fundamental to the campus and hold great significance to the city and disrupting the campus could hurt this reputation.
As someone who appreciates the aesthetic qualities of the campus, I hope that the redesign takes care to preserve the elements that give the university its character. For example, while new dorms and buildings are necessary, they should reflect the university’s established architectural style, respecting the existing structures while introducing modern features.
A Vision for the Future
In conclusion, the 2017 Sasaki redesign for Syracuse University offers a bold vision for a more connected, functional, and aesthetically pleasing campus. While the plans for new dormitories, expanded athletic facilities, and improved student spaces are exciting, the implementation of these changes will require careful attention to balance the needs of students, faculty, and the university’s heritage. As a current student, I am hopeful that these redesigns will make campus life more convenient, inclusive, and enjoyable, but I also believe that careful consideration must be given to the diverse needs of all students. If executed thoughtfully, this redesign could enhance our campus experience for years to come, fostering a more vibrant, connected, and forward-looking Syracuse University. Go Cuse.
