The building, which appeared on the northern tip of Manhattan Island, complemented the Columbia University outdoor sports complex located there. The building housed a gymnasium, surrounded by a mezzanine floor with offices of university teams, as well as conference rooms, a training center and a representative room - in case a prominent university graduate visits.
Situated on a flat section, the building is partially raised on supports, forming a "gate" leading to the playing fields. The facades are sheathed with aluminum sheets, a significant place is occupied by the glazing surfaces.
Stephen Hall described the idea of his project as "points on the ground, lines in space": points are piles, and lines are external zigzag stairs. Metaphor also refers to the pattern of the match that the coach draws when instructing the players.
The "industrial" look of Campbell Center is inspired by the nearby Broadway Bridge and subway ramps.
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