J.B. Hunt Transport Services Center for Academic Excellence

University of Arkansas

Design Architect: Perry Dean Rogers Partners Architects

Architect of Record:  WD&D Architects

Location: Fayetteville, AR

Total GSF: 124,000 GSF

Completed: 2007

Awards: 

2008 Arkansas AIA, Finalist

2008 American School & University

The award-winning Center for Academic Excellence serves as a focal point and a key infrastructural node for information technology on the University of Arkansas campus. The building encourages interdisciplinary work and social activity by pairing three distinct colleges (the Walton College of Business, the College of Arts and Sciences, and the College of Engineering) with a variety of shared spaces, including large and small lecture halls, a 175-seat auditorium, lounge spaces, and a café. 

Passive heating and cooling and intentionally flexible interior spaces comprise the sustainability strategy for the Center for Academic Excellence. A sunscreen protects the south façade while allowing visual connectivity between interior and exterior space. The screen adds a layer of texture to the overall composition, contributing to the building’s design as well as to its energy performance. Movable walls systems allow for future interior reconfiguration, and a raised floor system minimizes cooling costs while allowing maximum access to systems below.