DBPA worked with Temple University in developing a plan to relocate the
campus of the Tyler School of Art from its present site in suburban Elkins
Park to the University's Main Campus in North Philadelphia.
Through programming, site analysis, and conceptual design, DBA tackled the
complex issues inherent in integrating this self-sufficient suburban art
school into a diverse urban university. Since 1935, Tyler's program has
thrived in the communal space of their idyllic campus, formerly a private
estate. Tyler currently offers courses in painting, sculpture, ceramics,
glass, fibers, graphic arts, printmaking, photography, and metal work. The
depth of the course offerings and the specific technical requirements of
each discipline create complex spatial relationships. Tyler students work
and exhibit in every inch of their unique surroundings, both interior and
exterior.
Through interviews with university staff and the entire Tyler community,
DBPA developed a programming document that graphically represents the needs
and goals the new building must address. After conducting an analysis of
the designated site - a city block adjacent to Temple's campus - DBPA then
developed the extensive adjacency diagrams and program charts into a conceptual
design. With its glowing openness, the design for Tyler's new 250,000 sf
building emphasizes the school's rich mix of art disciplines while allowing
the vitality of art-making to light up the whole Temple campus. It is Temple
University's hope that the Tyler School of Art will both enrich and be enriched
by its new location on the Main Campus. |
