University of Arizona College of Medicine Expansion
Collaborating with the College of Medicine revealed a desire to capture and preserve the neoclassical beauty of the 1911 Phoenix Union High School, which the institution intended to house an expansion for its cutting-edge programs. SmithGroup began to plan a solution that would address multiple challenges.
Client
University of Arizona
Location
Tucson, Arizona
Markets/Services
Architecture, Higher Education, Historic Preservation, Interiors, Lab Planning, MEP Engineering, Programming, Health Sciences
SmithGroup's work on the project started with the original wood structure which had to be removed, and new core structures attached to increase floor space. The design team led a structural stabilization of the historic building, preserving the historic auditorium to use as a conference center – with restored original details, plaster ornament, and wood flooring and stairs. The project also added operable wood windows identical to the originals, but with insulated glazing.
Now, within the landmark façades reside state-of-the-art telehealth technologies that are in no way historic, including advanced data technology and surgery simulation suites supported by real-time video on plasma screens. Yet by adapting and reusing this extraordinary structure, stakeholders saved a rare example of Phoenix architecture while reducing the need for additional building materials.