Contemplative Commons at the University of Virginia

Photo of Contemplative Commons at the University of Virginia

Organization Overview

Located on the historic Jeffersonian campus, the Contemplative Commons is a first-of-its-kind, pan-university center to support student resilience through immersive, experiential, and participatory learning. Biophilic at its core, the wood-lined multi-function studios connect to gardens and courtyards reinforcing the contemplative and communal focus of the Commons.
Photo of Contemplative Commons at the University of Virginia

Award

Finalist

Category

2026 Architecture

Project Team

Design Architect: Aidin Darling Design

Architect of Record: VMDO Architects

Client: University of Virginia

General Contractor: Hourigan Construction Corp

Landscape: Nelson Byrd Woltz Landscape Architects

Civil Engineer: TRC

Structural Engineer: Springpoint Structural

MEP Engineer: AEI/Affiliated Engineers Inc.

Lighting & AV Consulting: Apeiro Design

Lighting: Pivotal Lighting Design

IT/Security Consulting: NV5

Programming: Brightspot Strategy, now a part of Buro Happold

Code Consulting: Jensen Hughes

Food Service Consulting: Tipton Associates

Sustainability Consultant: RE4M

Specifications: Long Green Specs

Hardware Specifications: Brown's Lock & Safe

Vegetated Roof Consulting: Studio Sustena

Photographer: Matthew Millman Photography