NATIONALLY-PROMINENT PROGRAMS:
                                                                          ARCHITECTURE

New Jersey School of Architecture is a national leader in computer-assisted design (CAD). One of the first architectural schools in the nation to incorporate computerized 3D modeling into the curriculum, SOA requires courses in electronic design for all students, and since the opening of the School of Architecture building in1998, all studio desks are wired for access to the latest 3D modeling, electronic drafting, and image-processing software.

The school often serves as a beta testing site for companies to test new programs. NJIT architecture students consistently take national design awards for their CAD work, and students are regularly invited to show their work in prestigious exhibits. The school plans to build upon its electronic design expertise by developing a program in computer-assisted manufacturing that focuses on producing customized products in limited quantities through flexible manufacturing.

. . . . . . the school plans to build upon its electronic design expertise . . . . . . .

Another area of emphasis at NJSOA is the “living laboratory” approach to community interaction. The school’s Urban Lab focuses on the urban dimension of contemporary architecture and planning problems, and the importance of local community participation in their resolution. The major concern is improving the quality of life in urban communities through architectural, urban design, and infrastructure planning interventions. The Lab serves as a sponsor for community-based studio projects that address specific urban problems and conditions currently faced. The school plans to expand on this base with a program in urban planning.

During 2003-2004, NJSOA celebrated its 30th anniversary by taking top honors in national competitions such as the CADDIE awards, and the AUTODESK Design Award. Faculty members gained prestigious awards from the Guggenheim Foundation, the Amercan Institute of Architects, the American Academy in Rome,  and the New York Landmarks Conservancy.

Other projects of note include:

• Schools for the 21st Century: Deane Evans, director of the Center for Architecture and Building Sciences Research, is directing the newly formed New Jersey High Performance Schools Information Center. Read more.
• Redesigning River Vale: Students in Professor Glenn Goldman’s studio got a unique opportunity to work on a real-world redevelopment project for the city of River Vale, NJ. Mayor George Paschalis, a 2002 graduate of NJSOA, challenged the studio to develop new designs for municipal facilities, including replacements for an inadequate police station and a community center with lead contamination. Read an article in NJIT Alumni Magazine. View a sampling of student designs.
• Paterson Research Initiative: Darius Sollohub and Tony Santos, associate director and director (respectively) of the infrastructure planning program and members of NJSOA’ s Urban Laboratory, will develop a comprehensive long range plan for the city of Paterson, NJ.  Research will emphasize Paterson in the context of the many communities that surround and influence it.  Read more.
• Remodeling for Newark's Headstart: NJSOA students won a national prize for their plans to remodel a long abandoned Newark bank building and turn it into a useable and attractive new Head Start school and office. Read more.
• Affordable Housing Design: The Affordable Housing Design Advisor is a Web-based tool created to help community development organizations across the U.S. achieve design excellence in their affordable housing developments.  Read more.
• Parking Management Strategies: A project underway at NJSOA's Urban Laboratory is studying parking structures around train stations. Read more.