When The Ohio State University challenged the Studio team with the question, “How can you make a utility building, like a pump station, look less utilitarian?” we were game to find the perfect answer. Working in partnership with the civil engineers at EMH&T, our team created a structure with a classic, brick firehouse feel. Furthering improvement around Cannon Drive, The Studio built up the entrance with brick pillars, and enhanced parking with the Dodd garage.
This pump station is capable of churning out 50,000 gallons of water a minute.
From appearance alone, it’s not blaringly obvious that the building at the southwest corner of Cannon Drive and Medical Center Drive, exists to help water flow away from campus during heavy rainfall (and capable of churning out 50,000 gallons of water a minute). While the work of the pumps happens largely below grade, the building itself houses electric panels and large cranes capable of lifting the pumps, if needed.
We focused on mindful design—custom 18-foot doors, tall enough to back a semi inside, made of tube steel and metal plating and large, and high windows that flood the interior with natural light. “We gave this utilitarian building a timeless character—as if it had been standing at the threshold of the university’s campus for 100 years,” says architect Danial Hanes.
A brick facade covers the exterior of the pump house, helping it blend in with the surrounding architecture.
A black metal grid in the windows elevates the design.
Brick pillars distinguish the entrance to the medical campus, establishing a sense of timelessness and understated elegance. Brick was intentionally selected for its refined character, while the masonry detailing highlights the craftsmanship and depth possible within a single material.
Lying within the ornate detailing is the University's seal. The custom metal plate pays homage to the long-standing history of the college.
Two modern canopies and a public restroom facility integrated into the parking structure below support the program of the COSI entry pavilion while serving as feature landmarks to welcome museum guests.
Last of three parking structures supporting Grandview Yard, this five level (one below grade and three elevated decks) building handles 1,469 cars for 955 and 995 Yard Street, and future condo and apartment dwellers.
It all started with one project and a move to Columbus. With over a decade of collaboration with MKSK and Nationwide Realty Investors, our Studio’s principals have designed many of the districts transformational projects.
About The Author
Dukyoung Lee - Architect
Since 2016 and as a founding team member of The Columbus Architectural Studio, Duk Young Lee has built a culture of exploration within the firm. The highly awarded and certified architect holds a Master’s degree, AP, BD+C certified, and is LEED awarded. It’s with Duk Young’s ambition that she has built a philosophy of purposeful design, and has fostered a keen ability to find balance between materiality, functionality, and beauty. Her handiwork can be seen all over the city such as the Dublin Park Pavilion and Grandview Crossing Office, which exemplifies her expertise in exterior design and modeling. Even outside the office, Duk Young is always exploring whether it be rock climbing, learning guitar or simply trying new coffee shops around town.