Sam Houston State University
College of Humanities and Social Sciences
(Formerly Academic Building 5) 

Challenge
A new building was needed on campus to house a variety of occupants, including the Psychology and Political Science departments, the Student Mentoring and Advising Center, and administrative spaces for purchasing, business office, HR and accounting.

Solution
WHR created a slope design for the building, consisting of four floors plus a partial basement level. The partial basement houses the central plant and readily accessible lecture halls that utilize the slope for tiered seating. The four floors were designed by department and function to optimize circulation and efficiency, with all administrative areas located on the top floor.

Results
The 148,000 square-foot facility now serves more than 1,150 students and staff in all intended functions, and the building with its own central plant operates at 60% efficiency.