Washington University in St. Louis (WUSTL) has undertaken a major endeavor to transform the East Campus area to accommodate future growth and create a new gateway to the surrounding city. The projects have been divided into three phases, each building upon the foundation laid by the previous phase.

In Phase 1, BNIM partnered with Sasaki and Andropgon on the East Campus Framework Plan. The team developed the fundamental strategies of open space concepts and program, identified pedestrian pathways and connections, and established pedagogical and sustainability goals for buildings and landscape, among other strategies. The campus contains significant opportunities for this development but was somewhat restricted by St. Louis County’s mandate to provide a specific amount of parking. To create a vibrant campus with thriving landscape and responsible development that respected the prestigious campus history, the plan explores creating a new underground parking structure. This would allow for future growth and meet WUSTL’s programmatic needs.

During the second phase, BNIM collaborated with Michael Vergason on the master plan, which delved deeper into the framework, identifying specific strategies and potential projects. BNIM and Michael Vergason worked together to refine building placement and scale of five new structures — which are currently underway — plus the addition to the Kemper Museum, including the parking structure.

In the third and final phase, six projects and landscape work are currently being executed. BNIM’s primary role in this phase is to serve as architect of the new underground parking structure, along with KieranTimberlake. In addition, BNIM participates on the advisory committee with Moore Ruble Yudell, KieranTimberlake, and Michael Vergason.

Renderings in collaboration with KieranTimberlake. Select renderings provided by Studio AMD.