MASONRY / HONOR

Entry Name: Metropolitan Community College – Connector Building
Firm: Bahr Vermeer Haecker Architects
Owner: Metropolitan Community College
Photographer: Farshid Assassi

This facility is a two story, 75,000 sf building that “connects” two existing community college campus buildings, incorporates a public transportation hub, and connects to a new city library.  The site is located in a former industrial meat packing area. This area, once a vibrant, active part of Omaha’s commerce, is today a source of pride for its historical roots.  Current adjacent buildings include warehouses, other industrial facilities, and the local community college buildings.

A new tower is built to emphasize the rejuvenation of the area. Two large brick “ruin walls” were constructed as a reference to the massive industrial buildings that once occupied the site.

Jury Comments: This building leverages an unusual program to create a true sense of place. The design supports a special human experience at both a monumental and intimate scale.