The new state of the art University of Oregon John E. Jaqua Center for Student Athletes which opened in January 2010 has been recognized for excellence by Interior Design, Engineering News-Record (ENR) and Northwest Construction. Zimmer Gunsel Frasca Architects was recognized for Best in Education in 2010 for the University of Oregon John E. Jaqua Academic Center for Student Athletes. ENR named it the Best of the Best in Architectural Design in 2010 and Northwest Construction named the Jaqua Center Architectural winner for 2010.
One of the most interesting features of the Jaqua Center is the mosaic mural that graces the interior. It is made of etched stainless steel. The mural is comprised of 30,000 individual photographs of campus scenes and students and is displayed in approximately 1200 sq. ft. of stainless steel provided by Contrarian Micro Textures through their partner, Tsukiboshi Art Ltd. Together the etchings of photographs form the image of Albert Einstein. Advanced computer controlled laser technology combined with sophisticated chemical etching techniques were used to create the art work.
Photograper Basil Childers spent a year capturing the images of University of Oregon athletes following them throughout their days on campus. The design was conceived by Randy Stegmeier and his team at ZGF Architects, Portland.
The interior of the Jaqua Center focuses on allowing the visitor a varied experience during each visit. The Einstein wall, for example, may require several visits before Einstein’s likeness is apparent within the mosaic.
Contrarian’s graphic capabilities are apparent in the crisp execution of the design team’s vision. This is a great example of how Contrarian’s knowledge and problem-solving skills help designs become reality. Contrarian’s extensive line of interior and exterior colorized, coined, embossed and etched stainless may be used in a variety of applications and Contrarian’s sales representative are available to assist with the best choices for any project. Contrarian Micro Textures is thrilled to be a part of this cutting edge application of graphic stainless technology.
Built under LEED® guidelines, the Jaqua Center sports many environmentally sensitive features, including a double-walled envelope that uses water from an outdoor pool for heating and cooling.