Located in downtown Newark, the project included the construction of a new main campus bookstore and development offices for the University of Delaware.  The project contributes to a successful “town and gown” relationship between the City of Newark and the University of Delaware, promoting the symbiotic relationship of public and retail space. This is achieved through the strategic placement of the book store at a prominent site on the edge of the University campus and the construction of welcoming spaces for both the university and the town. A landscaped plaza integrates the new structure with the historic Christiana School District Building and three neighboring Georgian structures. 

The project explores how the placeless big-box retail experience can be reconsidered by integrating the structure into an urban space among several historic structures in the heart of downtown Newark, at the edge of the University of Delaware Campus.

 

 

digboo15

Sited amongst several historic structures, this project creates a significant public plaza that connects East Main Street and Academy Street while providing principal ample frontage for the Bookstore, an exterior gathering space for University of Delaware students, Newark residents and visitors alike.  The historic Christina School Building was restored and incorporated into the Bookstore as a double-height cafe. 

Modified Monk Bond Brick Detailing

digboo18

The Bookstore is an extension of the new plaza.  Exterior floors, walls and ceilings cross the glass threshold and continue indoors, providing continuity between the plaza outside and the retail space within.  

DIG BOO

The monk bond masonry pattern found throughout the University of Delaware’s campus is reinterpreted with three-dimensional relief and a dark color that creates a contrasting backdrop to the adjacent historic masonry structures.  

 

Recognition:

2015 Delaware Contractors Association Excellence Award
2013 Brick Industry Association Brick in Architecture Award
2012 AIA Philadelphia Merit Award

Projects

DIGSAU

340 North 12th Street

Suite 421

Philadelphia, PA 19107

v 215.627.0808

e info@digsau.com

www.instagram.com/digsau_architecture

 

 

 

Job Posting: Architect I/Designer I

We are seeking a full-time architectural designer with exceptional graphic and illustration skills along with drafting and modeling abilities. The roles and responsibilities of the Architect I/Designer I position include broad exposure to many aspects of project design and delivery, including participation in developing design concepts, creating presentation materials, working on construction documents, and assisting in construction administration.   The candidate must be a multi-tasking, detail-oriented, hard-working team player.  

View full job description here.

 

Job Posting: Architect II/Designer II

We are seeking a full time Designer II or Architect II. The successful applicant will be a self-motivated and creative problem-solver, exhibiting strong management and design skills. The roles and responsbilities of the Architect II/Designer II position include broad exposure to many aspects of project design and delivery, including participation in developing concepts, creating presentation materials, working on construction documents, and assisting in construction administration. The candidate must be adaptable and able to work to prioritizing tasks with Project Architect or Manager supervision; demonstrate an imaginative, creative and innovative design solutions to technical problems; be flexible, a motivated multi-tasker, detail-oriented, and a hard-working team player. Candidates should be fluent in digital and physical three-dimensional modeling, demonstrate strong graphic communication skills, and be passionate about design and architecture. The position requires the ability to collaborate with multiple team members, coordinate the efforts of consultants, and an ability to tackle new challenges.  

View full job description here.

 

 

If you would like to be considered for an internship or full-time position, e-mail a cover letter, resume, references and portfolio to employment@digsau.com as one PDF document.  Please limit attachments to 2MB.  We will respond to you should the appropriate opportunity be available.  No phone calls please.