LLB Architects completed design and construction of the historic Gender and Sexuality Center at the University of Rhode Island. As the United States' first free-standing campus center dedicated to the LGBTQ community, the new building serves as a testimony to LLB Architects and the University's commitment to celebrating diversity and providing support for the needs of the of the community and their straight allies. The ribbon cutting and grand opening was celebrated on May 6.
The facility is a residential-style building located on half an acre on Upper College Rd., the gateway road to the main campus. The 4,300 s/f, two-story wood structure includes multipurpose rooms for workshops, classes, and events; a student lounge and resource area; a consult room for group and individual meetings; kitchen and administrative space.
Drayton Fair, principal at LLB Architects said, "The design of the G&SC at URI is inspired by themes found in history and daily LGBTQ life. The stone facade on one volume of the building represents the strength and permanence of diversity while recognizing the 1968 Stonewall Riot in Greenwich Village. The pergola over the front entrance is representative of how often the community has had to be hidden. As a celebration of acceptance, the pergola is now a safe and open presence welcoming visitors to the center."
University of Rhode Island president, David Dooley said in a statement at the ribbon cutting, "This new facility is a tangible way for current and new students, faculty and staff to know that our transformational goals are far more than words on paper." Annie Russell, Director of the Gender and Sexuality Center, said "We will also become a standard bearer for institutions across the country, to showcase the future possibilities for centers like ours."