Syracuse Architecture returns to Slocum Hall; rededication slated for Homecoming+Reunion Weekend

Syracuse Architecture returns to Slocum Hall; rededication slated for Homecoming+Reunion WeekendSeptember 11, 2008Mary Kate O’Brienmcobrien@syr.edu

Slocum Hall, the campus home of the Syracuse University School of Architecture, reopened for the Fall 2008 semester after completion of the historic building’s two-year renovation project. A weekend of activities at Slocum Hall, from Sept. 18-20, will reflect on the history of the building and celebrate the striking renovation by Garrison Architects.

Led by James Garrison G’79, principal of New York City-based Garrison Architects, the redesign has introduced vertical openness and light into the building, exposing the previously closed off five-story atrium; improved energy efficiency; added a new auditorium and gallery; and expanded studio, research and office space, including the incorporation of new technology in the studio environment. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Slocum Hall was built in 1918 but had undergone a series of obstructive changes to its form over the years, most notably the closing of its central atrium space

The rededication weekend will kick off on Thursday, Sept. 18, with Garrison’s lecture, “Slocum Hall: Ambivalence and Potential,” at 5 p.m. in Slocum Auditorium. Following the lecture, a reception will be held at 6 p.m. in Slocum Gallery for the opening of the exhibition “Slocum Hall: Past Imperfect.” On Friday, Sept. 19, professors Timothy Stenson and Michael Pelken will lead a discussion on their sustainability research, “Syracuse Green II: Innovations in Sustainable Design.” The weekend’s activities culminate on Saturday, Sept. 20, at 10 a.m. with a dean’s brunch and Slocum rededication in Slocum Gallery.

Student-led tours of Slocum Hall will be held throughout the weekend, and the school’s theater group, WhAT, will perform “Laugh ’til you say WhAT,” Saturday evening in Slocum Auditorium. Tickets are available at the Schine Box Office.

During the Slocum Hall renovation, the school was located at The Warehouse in downtown Syracuse adjacent to Armory Square. The school will maintain a presence at The Warehouse for visiting critic studios, and the site will continue to serve as the headquarters for UPSTATE: A Center for Design, Research and Real Estate.

James Garrison founded Garrison Architects in 1991. The firm has focused on a wide range of building types from master plans for the City of Tokyo to urban playgrounds of recycled plastics. Recent projects utilize a comprehensive approach to sustainability with the goal of eliminating the machinery and energy demands of climate control. The firm’s work has received numerous awards from The American Institute of Architects, The Chicago Athenaeum and The General Services Administration Design Excellence Program.

Syracuse University School of Architecture is the fourth-oldest program in the United States and consistently rated among the top architecture schools in the country. In 2008, the school’s undergraduate program was ranked third in the nation by DesignIntelligence.

For more information, visit http://soa.syr.edu.