The Kunz-Brundige facility serves as the new headquarters of the Franklin County Extension office and is a gateway to OSU's College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences. The facility establishes a strong link between the college and its surrounding community. While the focus for agriculture remains instrumental at the Franklin County Extension, the main purpose of the facility is to support the growing network of local youth and adults through outreach and educational programming.
Each space in the building serves a purpose that focuses on a “learn by doing” mentality. To support the goals of the University, spaces were designed to demonstrate and cooking, nutrition, gardening and research.
The building was designed to blend into its context with minimal impact on the surrounding land. Users area meant to be aware of the sustainable features of the building such as the faceted green roof that slopes to collect rainwater.
PROJECT TEAM
Collaborating Firm
M + A Architects
Structural Engineer
SMBH, Inc.
MEP
Advanced Engineering Consultants
Civil Engineer
SandsDecker, LLC
Landscape Architect
PlanIt Studios
Kunz-BrundigeFranklin County Extension
Category
2020 Architectural Excellence DESIGN AWARDS > Architecture
Description
FIRM
Erdy McHenry Architecture, LLC
PROJECT LOCATION
Columbus, Ohio
LOCAL AIA CHAPTER
AIA Philadelphia
IMAGE CAPTION & CREDITS
Image 1 // The elevated green roof camouflages the building from an aerial view; blending into the surrounding crop and garden plots. The ground has been lifted rather than displaced, by the building. Credit: Feinknopf Photography
Image 2 // Floor to ceiling windows are located along the perimeter of the building to ensure users have a physical connection to the exterior. Credit: Feinknopf Photography
Image 3 // The large operable doors allow for spaces to be utilized in multiple ways. The Lobby can become an overflow space for a large lecture in the Multi-Purpose Room or be closed off for a more formal event. Credit: Feinknopf Photography
Image 4 // The green roof slopes to simulate the natural water flow by draining all rain water via a large scupper into a rain garden below. The rain garden was designed to overcome a 100 year flood and is used as a learning tool for sustainable practices for students and community members. Credit: Feinknopf Photography