Architecture Students Provide Design Concepts for Mission

Fairmont State University Architecture students are working with the Clarksburg Mission to design a day shelter for those in need.

Seven seniors in Philip Freeman's "Design 5" class met with the Clarksburg Mission Board of Directors and clients and toured the existing facility in Clarksburg.

The goal is to design a 1,200 square foot space for the Open Door Day Shelter to give the shelter's clients a place to be off the street and to receive meals and other services. The design includes meeting space that could be used for counseling or help groups.

The students recently presented their individual design concepts to the Mission's Board of Directors and clients. Once the Mission decides on a design, the class will provide a construction document to provide help with the build.

"It's a nice opportunity to really serve the community, which is what we should be able to do as a university," said Freeman, Coordinator of the Architecture Program.

Justin Cullen of Point Pleasant, W.Va., one of the seven students who presented a design concept, said the process was a good, real-life project that included working with a client to incorporate their needs.

"I think the Mission really enjoyed what we had to show them. It was definitely a great experience, just like real-life, like something you would find if you worked for an architectural firm. This will help prepare us for what we're doing later on in our careers," Cullen said.

For more information about FSU's Architecture Program, visit http://www.fairmontstate.edu/collegeofscitech/academics/architecture-program or call Philip Freeman at (304) 367-4237.