valerio dewalt train: rita atkinson residences at the university of california

‘rita atkinson residences at the university of california’ by valerio dewalt train images courtesy of valerio dewalt train

chicago based practice valerio dewalt train has completed ‘rita atkinson residences’ at the university of california in san diego. the development, a dynamic u-shaped structure houses 226, two-bedroom apartments for graduate and professional students.

front

located on a promontory at the main entrance of the campus, the building serves as a visual icon and landmark. in keeping with the informal nature of the campus, the design features an urban asymmetrical form that responds to the surrounding environment.

side entrance

a series of large windows, voids, green roofs and cantilevered volumes interrupt the large mass, lightening the

building’s presence on the landscape. three wings, each standing six stories above ground encircle a garden courtyard,

providing students with a communal space to gather.

entrance

inside, student services, laundry facilities, bike storage, fitness rooms and shared common rooms are dispersed over

a total of nine floors – three of which sit below ground. at one end of each corridor, and at both ends where possible,

extensive glazing floods the circulation spaces with natural light.

gardens

courtyard

back

site plan