UB School of Architecture and Planning to Undergo Modernization

BUFFALO, N.Y. -- The University at Buffalo has announced a restoration and renewal project for the School of Architecture and Planning on the university's South Campus.

The school is housed in Hayes Hall and Crosby Hall -- two of the most historic structures and iconic buildings at UB. Through the utilization of New York State critical maintenance funds, this $50 million project will preserve the historic exteriors of the buildings while creating academic spaces befitting a 21st century school of architecture and planning.

"This is an inspiring initiative," said Brian Carter, dean of the UB School of Architecture and Planning. "It underlines the importance of architecture and planning at UB, safeguards the environment and preserves our history while at the same time enabling the school to become a model for the future."

The project, which will begin this year and be completed in 2014, will not only renew infrastructure within both of the buildings but also create new interior spaces, Carter said.

Hayes Hall, built in 1874 as part of the Erie County Almshouse, Asylum and Poor Farm, was acquired by the university in 1909. One of UB's most identifiable buildings and a landmark on Main Street in Buffalo, it has been the home of the School of Architecture and Planning since 1975. Hayes Hall houses administrative and faculty offices, classrooms, research centers, the Architecture and Planning Library, a visual resources center, digital laboratories and exhibition galleries.

Crosby Hall, completed in 1931, accommodates studio spaces, critique rooms, a digital workshop and lecture hall.

UB's School of Architecture and Planning is the only school of architecture and planning in the State University of New York system and offers accredited professional degrees in architecture and urban and regional planning. With more than 800 students enrolled in undergraduate and graduate programs it is also a leading research center that focuses on accessibility, community development, urban design and digital media.

Alumni from the school are working in notable practices around the world, and the school offers an annual lecture and exhibition program that is open to the public and which brings internationally recognized architects, planners, researchers and critics to speak in Buffalo. Last year this program included Pritzker Prize winners Richard Meier and Kazuyo Sejima.

The University at Buffalo is a premier research-intensive public university, a flagship institution in the State University of New York system and its largest and most comprehensive campus. UB's more than 28,000 students pursue their academic interests through more than 300 undergraduate, graduate and professional degree programs. Founded in 1846, the University at Buffalo is a member of the Association of American Universities.