Following a decision to demolish and replace three major buildings in the middle of campus, Clemson University sought to fundamentally re-imagine the entire Core Campus precinct. The Core Campus Study was intended to answer the question: How might forward-looking approaches to housing, academic, dining, and student life programs be combined into an innovative and dynamic mixed-use center?

To solve this problem, VMDO worked in concert with Stevens & Wilkinson Architects and Sasaki Associates to develop a clear and engaging design for the Core Campus precinct. Programming outlined approximately 260,000 square feet of new and replacement space within the precinct, including three residence halls, residential and retail dining, and strategic doses of academic space. The project’s guiding design principle was to create a vibrant cross-section of campus life that captures the physical manifestation of the Clemson experience.

The design strategy balanced building and landscape through tree-lined parkways, residential courtyards, shady café terraces, and lawn areas. Landscape divides and joins program space, creating a dynamic center for student activity. The enhanced residential dining component includes programming for demonstration cooking spaces, sustainable awareness initiatives, scatter-style serveries, grab n’ go options, and retail dining options.

The housing design consists of suite style housing that accommodates 700 beds. The configuration of units and open student spaces is designed to support a variety of living-learning communities. Dynamic learning areas – including group meeting rooms, distance learning areas, and faculty support spaces – foster collaborative learning and student engagement.