This new academic facility will initially serve as a temporary “swing space” for the Psychology Department and Engineering Shops (including wood, metal and welding shops), when these programs are relocated during construction of a new Biology, Engineering and Psychology building. Currently JacobsWyper is working with the College to transition Whittier into it's final program as Studio Arts space for Ceramics and Sculpture, with studios, a seminar room, critique space and display areas.
A focus on sustainability is evident throughout the planning and design of Whittier. Sustainable features include a geothermal heating and cooling conditioning system, vertical sunshades, accessible green roof terrace, anti-bird strike glass, a photovoltaic array, and electricity that is provided exclusively from wind energy. The provided stormwater drainage bed is above-and-beyond code requirements, managing 25 times the required stormwater flow on site.
The carbon neutral facility meets LEED Platinum standards, as well as the goals of Swarthmore’s own environmental sustainability framework.
