Freshman Interior Design students recently visited Rivermont Independent Living in Norman, OK as a part of their studio course. 36 students attended the trip, joined by Professors of Interior Design Dr. Suchismita Bhattacharjee and Dr. Yeji Yi and graduate teaching assistant Naila Hasan.
This field trip is part of a larger project for Interior Design Studio II, which focuses on integrating human-centered design, universal design features and ADA standards in the design process. The students are tasked with designing comfortable and functional senior living units with accessible storage features, easy-to-clean surfaces and materials that will create a sense of openness.
As a part of the pre-design process, students examined various styles of independent living units to gain on-site experience. They also conducted interviews with elderly residents to learn about their needs and preferences. Based on the research data collected during the visit, students will create a two-bedroom residential unit within a proposed assisted living community.
Robert L. Wesley, a pioneering architect and beloved mentor, has died at age 88. A graduate of the University of Oklahoma, Wesley joined Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) in 1964 and became the firm's first Black partner in 1984. Throughout his career, he contributed to significant architectural projects while maintaining a strong commitment to civic engagement and professional mentorship.
The Christopher C. Gibbs College of Architecture is proud to celebrate a series of recent accomplishments by Dr. Jim Collard, Professor of Practice in the Division of Planning, Landscape Architecture, and Design, whose work continues to shape conversations around Indigenous economic development nationally and internationally.
University of Oklahoma Gibbs College of Architecture Dean Hans E. [PA1.1]Butzer returned to one of his most significant works on December 15, joining survivors and past and present board members for the groundbreaking of a $15.8 million expansion of the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum.
