In just 14 months, ESa provided master planning, programming, architectural design, interior design and construction contract administration for Caruthers House—the first of five houses that form the Aspirational Village at Shenandoah University. Roni’s Roost followed six months later, then the completion of Dove’s Nest, Dove’s Nest II and The Q. Requiring certain academic standards and commitments to community service from the student residents, the University sought to provide housing that upperclassmen could “aspire” to as part of a larger plan to improve upperclassman retention levels.
Anchoring the village is Caruthers House and features a wide monumental stair. These three-story structures, designed to reflect the Southern style of architecture for which Virginia is known, include six apartment-style housing units of four single-occupancy bedrooms each. The houses include large verandas, screened porches, high ceilings, cathedral ceilings on the top floor, an abundance of windows. Specific to Dove’s Nest II is a community room and visiting professor apartment. A central courtyard provides outdoor space for a fire pit, volleyball court and ample spaces to socialize.
Aspirational Village seeks to provide individual privacy, but also encourage community engagement among residents. The large entry stair, wide porches and multiple entries into each unit provide opportunities for student interaction in key social spaces, helping to keep students connected with the larger campus community.
Photos © Attic Fire Photography
