The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art, founded in 1859, established a radical new model of American higher education. Its mission reflected Peter Cooper’s fundamental belief that education of the highest quality should be as “free as air and water” and should be available to all who qualify, independent of race, religion, gender or social status. For 145 years, the College has admitted students based on merit alone and provided each with a full-tuition scholarship.

Now one of the nation most selective institutions of higher education, The Cooper Union unveils plans for a new academic building, designed as an innovative learning environment for the exceptional students enrolled today and for those to come.

In December 2003, after reviewing 150 candidates, Cooper Union announced the selection of architect Thom Mayne and his California-based firm, Morphosis, in collaboration with Gruzen Samton LLP of New York City. Thom Mayne's architectural philosophy integrates tradition and innovation, qualities that characterize Cooper Union's educational philosophy and that must converge in the new academic building.

The Cooper Union is proud to present this conceptual design, which demonstrates a commanding approach to the rapidly evolving pedagogical framework and higher education delivery systems, as well as the timelessness of fundamental learning strategies. The pre-schematic design underscores Cooper Union's commitment to academic excellence and leadership in the education of architects, artists and engineers.

The building will include high standards of sustainability, durability and flexibility to optimize its value to the College over time. To be occupied primarily by the Albert Nerken School of Engineering, the facility also will serve Cooper Union's Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, the Irwin S. Chanin School of Architecture and the School of Art. Maximizing its utility as both a space for study and a learning laboratory, the structure will have mechanical, structural, telecommunications and environmental technologies accessible for study by students and faculty.

This critical project is the linchpin in Cooper Union's overall strategic plan to renew its campus, to enhance the community centered on Cooper Square and to create a sustainable financial infrastructure, ensuring its full-tuition scholarships for all students in perpetuity.