Artwork by
Dennis Murphy

For the students, by the students

Student input wanted in redesign and expansion of Brady Commons
Adam Buckallew, Corner Post Staff

May 3, 2004 - The planning for the Brady Commons expansion has not been conducted without student input.

Representatives from Hardy Holzman Pfeiffer Associates and Mackey Mitchell Associates set up a table in Brady Commons Wednesday, April 28, to show students work they have done at other universities, and to give students a chance to speak their mind concerning the project. The two firms had a sheet of paper for students to write comments and ideas on, and they also had stickers for students to place on pictures of architectural designs they would like to see in the new Brady Student Center Expansion project.

Malcolm Holzman, a partner in Hardy Holzman Pfeiffer Associates, said, "Everything that is coming in will be taken into account."

Students' written comments ranged from a request for greater accessibility to restrooms and water fountains, to requests for a Popeye's Chicken.

"We are trying to get the widest opinions possible," Holzman said.

Angela Heinze, an architect with Mackey Mitchell Associates, the other firm working on the project, was also present to gather student opinions.

Heinze described student input as a vital impact to the design and renovation of Brady Commons.

"It's important that we get right what students want to see," Heinze said.

Holzman estimated that a design for renovation and expansion would be submitted to the University in September. He also said the construction and renovation would most likely be done in three phases.

The first phase would be to start construction of the new expansion, which would be located on the parking lot east of Brady Commons. The second and third phases would include renovation of existing facilities. Holzman said there are many aspects of the building that could be improved.

"The way it is set up right now it has an inward focus," Holzman said. "The connection with what is happening outdoors is not as strong as it should be, and we will try to improve that."

Heinze and Holzman also encouraged students to fill out a needs assessment that is being sent out to students via e-mail. The more feedback that is received, the better the two firms will be able to determine what students want. The two firms shall work together to bring the university a state-of-the-art student center.

Hardy Holzman Pfeiffer Associates was established in 1967, and the firm is known for its wide range of experience in complex building types for civic, educational, and commercial use. They have offices in Los Angeles and New York City. Their website is www.hhpa.com.

Mackey Mitchell Associates is a local architectural, planning, and design firm based in St. Louis. They have experience working with universities, high schools, and commercial endeavors. Their website is www.mackeymitchell.com.

To also seek student input about the Brady redesign, approximately 1,000 students were sent a survey via email.

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