October 28, 2013

George Poulin, AIA, LEED AP 07 (pictured, right), is an architect with Philadelphia-based design firm Strada/UJMN, and is the lead architectural designer for the School of Public Health’s renovation of Nesbitt Hall. Poulin earned his architecture degree from Drexel University’s College of Media Arts & Design (COMAD). He recently met with the editors of Nesbitt News in what will be the MPH student lounge after a construction meeting at Nesbitt Hall to talk about the design of the renovated building.

Question:  Why did you enter the architectural field?

Poulin: I always knew that I wanted to be an architect, and constantly took note of my surroudings. As a child, I enjoyed drawing and putting things together. This interest never went away.  Architecture gives me the opportunity to solve complex problems, be creative, and most importantly, impact lives.

Q. Do you have an architectural philosophy?

P.  Every client and every project is unique, and we, as architects, need to be responsive to these individual needs, and not assert a singular view. I do feel that architects should offer design solutions that are functional, sustainable, aesthetically pleasing and that will stand the test of time. Architects serve an important role by offering clients solutions that they might not have come up with themselves.

Q. What is the design approach being brought to the renovated Nesbitt Hall?

P.  Renovating an existing building presents an interesting challenge. Nesbitt Hall was built in the 1960’s, which offers a distinct style.  While of the era, the building has a sound framework in terms of design and functionality. Had we built an entirely new structure, the design would have taken on a very different form. All of the renovations will complement the existing architecture of the building. 

I started my architectural career in this building as a COMAD student. It served that school’s purpose at the time. In fact, it is a testament to the building that it can fit the needs of one school for so long, and then be completely repurposed to meet the specific needs of the School of Public Health (SPH). 

It is important to respect the history of the building, but with new functionality, purpose and finishes that meet the challenges and needs of the SPH. Since the renovations taking place have been designed specifically for the SPH, I think many will find Nesbitt to be a much better home than they are currently accustomed to.

Q. Talk about the design.

P. The framework and core of the building is very strong and lends itself to having floors that follow a similar pattern, yet are unique to each departmental need. For instance, the second through sixth floors allow for the creation of three distinct pods on each level. These pods will be outfitted with various workspaces that include offices, conference rooms, lounge and collaboration spaces. The seventh floor, which is known as the research floor, is the only level to depart from that model in order to best meet the spacial needs for laboratories, doctoral student lounges and research spaces.

Therefore, while each floor is distinct to the department on that level, the entire building will follow similar design standards and finishes. Form, function, and bright colors unite each floor. Video Extra: Design of Nesbitt Hall

Q. How does the location of Nesbitt Hall add to the design?

P. The SPH will be in the geographic heart of the University City campus. The school will be more closely aligned with the university, and a more visible member of the university community. With two large lecture halls on the ground floor, students and faculty outside of SPH will have the opportunity see the important work being done by those within the School. Video Extra: A Design for the School of Public Health on the University City Campus

Q. You were the architect for the renovation of the LEED-certified Friends Center in Center City.  Are there green elements to the renovation of Nesbitt Hall?

 P. Friends Center achieved the highest LEED score in Pennsylvania at the time of its completion.  Nesbitt Hall will not obtain LEED-certification, but that does not mean it will not be green. As designers, we see no distinction between sound construction practices and sustainable design. As such, Nesbitt Hall has a number of environmentally-friendly features.

For starters, the renovation of an existing building is inherently green. There is a significant amount of embodied energy within buildings and nothing is more sustainable than extending the life of a structure.

The mechanical systems in Nesbitt Hall will be completely modernized, allowing for better control, efficiency and overall air quality. LED lighting and occupancy sensors will help reduce energy costs.

The interior design maximizes natural light, and all spaces will have access to daylight through the use of interior windows and low furniture systems. Studies have shown that people are healthier and more productive when they have a connection to the outdoors. All windows are being replaced with thermal, clear glass for increased comfort and greater efficiency.

In addition, the finishes will feature sustainable materials.  The carpet contains a high percentage of recycled content and resilient flooring uses bio-based polymers instead of vinyl.  Low VOC paint used in bright colors will maximize natural light.  Video Extra: Green Design

Q. You noted that you graduated from Drexel University’s architecture program.  Can you elaborate on how that impacts your work on Nesbitt Hall?

P. I actually still work for the design firm where I had my Co-op experience as an architectural student at COMAD.  I have been with the firm for almost 11 years. The degree program obviously helped me launch my career and follow my passion as an architect.

It is interesting to be able to rebuild and repurpose the building where I started my studies. I enjoy the challenge of the project, and my connection to the building and Drexel University. I feel very fortunate to be able to help make this project a reality. Video Extra: An Alumni Perspective

Q. What are your interests outside of work?

P.  A lot of my spare time is spent volunteering for the Powelton Village Civic Association, where I serve as chair of the zoning committee. I am passionate about classical music and also enjoy gardening.