URI Robert J. Higgins Welcome Center
The Robert J. Higgins Welcome Center seeks to extend a warm invitation to prospective University of Rhode Island students and their families. Consolidating and elevating the visitor experience as well as acting as the “front door” to the campus, it is an interactive, one-story building that will serve roughly 50,000 visitors each year. Given the maturity of the protected Oak trees on-site and the way the building has respectfully nestled near them, the Welcome Center feels as established on the campus as it does refreshingly new. In this way -- and many others -- the design has embraced both the present and future while celebrating URI’s past.
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Michael’s interest in modern cities, vernacular structures, industrial heritage and rural life has led him to many foreign countries and remote villages and informs much of his work. His enthusiasm for making vibrant places and appreciation for craftsmanship fuels his passion for designing new buildings and restoring historic ones. Whether designing a new highrise, performance center, academic space, church or community health center, Michael’s aesthetic reflects a commitment to simplicity and restraint that is celebrated through carefully-selected materials and solid details. Michael’s clients know him for his unyielding attention to detail and his overall commitment to their project’s success.
Where you’ll find Michael when he's not at the office:
In his woodshop making furniture and woodturning
Favorite vacation spot:
Sardinia
2018 - AIA Rhode Island Honor Award for Academic / Institutional