Completion Date: 2012
Square Footage: 290,000
LEED Gold Targeted

The Husky Union Building (HUB) has been the “heart and soul” of the University of Washington for over 60 years. It is a much-loved building and the keeper of many traditions and institutional memories. In planning for the future, it was important to pay tribute to past generations. The original building constructed in 1949 and its subsequent expansions in 1952 and 1975, had been cobbled together in piecemeal fashion. Our design for the new HUB knits these elements to create a single, unified center for the entire university community.

Our master planning and schematic design process was highly collaborative and involved students, faculty, administration and staff. The final scheme unites a virtually new and contemporary 5-story building around a new 3-level atrium, connecting to the historic west facade. The atrium is a major focal point on campus, animated by stairs, student lounges and informal meeting spaces. Program elements include spaces for student activities and student government, an auditorium and performance space, food service, bowling alley, book store and retail, bike shop and an active outdoor area for food and vendors. Students view this building as an opportunity to pass on a legacy of environmental stewardship to future generations of students.