Clemson University
Wilbur O. & Ann Powers College of Business
Designed to foster innovation and collaboration, the College of Business combines flexible learning spaces, real-world business environments, and vibrant student amenities within a light-filled, energy-efficient setting. Rooted in its historic campus context, the building prepares future business leaders through hands-on learning, meaningful connections, and experiences that extend beyond the classroom.
LOCATION Clemson, SC
COMPLETED 2020
SIZE 176,000 SF
SUSTAINABILITY LEED Silver
PHOTOGRAPHER Mark Herboth
DESIGN PARTNER LMN
AWARDS American Architecture Award | AIA South Carolina | AIA Greenville
Forward Thinking Design
As the first academic building in the campus’s North Precinct, the College of Business establishes a new gateway to the university while strengthening connections with the surrounding community. Designed to support evolving technology, teaching methods, and learning styles, the building provides flexible spaces that can adapt over time. Balancing innovation with tradition, the design respects its historic setting while creating an engaging environment where students, faculty, and industry partners can connect, collaborate, and thrive. At its heart is a simple goal: to create a place students want to be.
Enjoying the Climb
The site had one more notable attribute: a steep 40’ grade between Bowman Field and the Douthit Hills student residence halls above. The hill became the project’s greatest challenge, and also its greatest asset. The design team capitalized on the dramatic topography and envisioned the hill climb as a defining project feature, akin to Rome’s beloved Spanish Steps. The buildings’ form – a larger volume canted to align with the hill connected to a linear bar via a below-stair passageway– frames the terraced exterior stair and plazas.
