Salisbury University Patricia R. Guerrieri Academic Commons

A Campus Center for Collaboration

Salisbury, MD

Client

Salsibury University

Team

Ayers Saint Gross, Sasaki, Gilbane Building Company, Site Resources, Inc.

Cost

$111.4 Million

Services

Campus Planning, Integrated Stormwater Management, Planting Design, LEED Certification, Urban Tree Conservation, Rooftop Design on Structure, Green Roof, Design Build

Certifications

LEED Gold Certified


The Academic Commons evolves the traditional student union function into an integrated facility housing the library/media center, collaboration space, classroom labs, and a small café. It has become a campus landmark and destination for the University and community.

Entry Plaza at Salisbury Stormwater Plantings and Precast Seatwalls ADA Ramp

Design Approach

Embracing the challenges of the limited site, Floura Teeter seamlessly integrated stormwater into the built landscape – satisfying regulatory, aesthetic, and educational needs. Runoff flows visibly through scuppers into structured bioretention areas where native trees, shrubs, perennials, and grasses provide a beautiful foreground to the building. A planted terrace offers stunning views from the rooftop event space.

Carefully crafted site details complement the architecture and provide connection points to the surrounding campus landscape. Granite pavers, precast walls, benches, plinths, and lighting all make the Academic Commons the beacon of the Salisbury University campus.

Salisbury Academic Commons Site Plan

Awards

  • USGBC Maryland Wintergreen Award, 2016
  • AIA Baltimore Excellence in Design Award, Honorable Mention, 2017

Project Team