FXFOWLE and CO Architects collaborate on Columbia University School of Nursing building

The new Columbia University School of Nursing building anchors the Medical Center’s urban New York City campus and offers students learning and social spaces. The building, conceived by FXFOWLE and Co Architects as a “welcoming lantern,” provides 65% more space than the school’s previous location.

Running throughout the seven-story building is a “collaboration ribbon” that begins in the lobby and flows upwards. The ribbon links people and offices with a series of informal meeting and breakout spaces before it culminates at a rooftop event space and garden.

The rooftop terrace at the new Columbia University School of Nursing Photo courtesy of FXFOWLE.

The building’s core houses clinical simulation labs, research centers, computer labs, and flexible office spaces. The simulation center provides students with a variety of technology-rich, simulated environments to practice patient care procedures in a safe, low-risk setting. The building was designed to alternate educational areas with spaces for community outreach.

The project provides about 70,000 sf and is targeting LEED Gold certification.

Columbia University School of Nursing simulation lab Photo courtesy of FXFOWLE.

The 332,000–sf design draws on the predominantly red brick character of The Christ Hospital’s existing buildings, interpreting it in a fresh and contemporary manner that fits well within the historic Mt. Auburn neighborhood while reflecting the institution’s dedication to experience, efficiency, flexibility, innovation and brand.