University of San Diego, Joan B. Kroc Institute for Peace and Justice

San Diego, California

Firm

Carrier Johnson

Client

University of San Diego

Area

95,000 sq.ft.

Total Cost

$23,000,000

Completion Date

07/2001

The Joan B. Kroc Institute for Peace and Justice at the University of San Diego will be a center for scholars, students and political leaders to study, reflect and work promoting societal harmony and understanding.
Overlooking Mission Bay on the southwest side of campus, the facility will host lectures, classes and conferences on topics such as conflict resolution, intercultural communications, social justice and human rights.
The design team faces the challenge of accommodating modern technology, including an auditorium and distance-learning center, while preserving the university’s Spanish Renaissance style. Parking facilities are located discretely below grade with a formal dropoff area in front of the institute.
A series of ornamental columns and cypress trees define an exterior garden framing the institute’s main entryway. The facility’s first floor houses an auditorium, lecture halls, dining area, distance-learning center, breakout rooms, chapel and meditation room.

Photographer: ©Lynn Sneary and ©Ray Varela, John Beck

“Very exciting plan with multiple and a variety of spaces…good community integration.”—1999 jury