Prismatic High-Performing Jaqua Center Fosters Learning at the University of Oregon

The Jaqua Center is a new student athlete facility for the University of Oregon in Euqene. Inside its prismatic exterior, <a href="http://inhabitat.com/category/daylighting">daylight</a> floods into the space providing inspiring conditions for students to study in. Likely, the non-student athletes may be jealous of the mod furnishings, wood-paneled reading rooms, the plush couches, and celebration of the university's athletics throughout the ages. Surrounded by a half moat, the Jaqua Center, designed by <a href="http://inhabitat.com/green-roofed-port-of-portland-headquarters-aims-for-leed-gold/">ZGF Architects</a>, features a <a href="http://inhabitat.com/tag/high-performance-facade">high performance facade</a>, which lets in light and repels heat and sound.

The John E. Jaqua Center For Student Athletes is a 40,000 square foot state-of-the-art academic learning center that provides the required NCAA academic services for student athlete tutoring.

The three-story student facility replaces an older building 1/5th its size and includes a café, auditorium, atrium for public events, and “hall of fame” to recognize past, present and future student athletes at the University.

It also provides space for an auditorium, offices, tutoring and conference rooms, computer and graphics labs, and lots of study areas for students.

The atrium features multiple installations dedicated to University of Oregon athletics.

Cloaked in a transparent, double-wall facade that addresses acoustic isolation, thermal insulation, and control of available daylight within the building, the Jaqua Center provides a direct connection from the inside to the outdoors.

The high performance facade is composed of multiple layers of glass, steel, screens and operable shades to control the indoor environment.

A modern cafe is filled with daylight.

Student study cubicles.

A large atrium pulls even more daylight into the interior spaces.

A body of water around half of the building provides further connection to the environment, and a bioswale collects and processes storm water.

A psychedelic bathroom.

Energy modeling, monitoring and high performance heating and ventilation systems also help further reduce energy use inside the building.

First level floorplan.