The site is a full block at the center of the southern edge of the campus. The main entrance is aligned with the adjacent Trinity Cathedral to form a gracious front lawn and garden along Euclid Avenue. The new building’s L-shaped plan encompasses an elliptical courtyard on its southeastern edge. Grounds are landscaped with indigenous trees, perennials, and grasses, including a garden of medicinal plants.
A three-story central atrium spans the full width of the building and includes a small café. Bridges cross the space on two levels, joining the east and west portions of the building. The steel structure of the atrium and the big stair are left exposed for a strong, straightforward architectural expression. The dramatic wood-clad inverted pyramidal ceiling is visible from outside the building and highlighted by the broad sweep of the roof cantilever.
The building’s exterior incorporates multiple textures. Warm, white terra cotta is woven together with custom extruded aluminum elements and clear and patterned glass. A full-height wall of glazed yellow terra cotta marks the main entrance. Corner stair towers are colorful and visible through the patterned glass walls.