These concepts were intended to provide two quick opposing styles on a phased complete demolition and replacement of the Physics building at Colorado School of Mines, in Golden, Colorado. These ideas were generated with almost zero client input other than a request for two options with a modern vs. traditional take on the same project. With a very short timeline and rudimentary space planning, our goal was to design and render a single view of the building to present to a potential donor, in effort to gain their interest and spark input based on first impressions.

Each design was based on the same program layout and size, with only minor variations to the overall footprint. The phased demolition made the existing main stairwell a sensible separation point for the new atrium and for construction phasing. The goal was to present two stylistically different looks to draw first impressions on each aesthetic.