Space Planning Strategies

UB uses a strategy of space management principles and processes to provide a comprehensive framework for the effective management of space resources. 

On this page:

Introduction to Space Planning

The campus must manage its space resources with the utmost care to fully realize our academic potential and the full value of our facilities. As a result, current space assignments may need to change, and when new buildings are completed, the disposition of space in the new buildings and the released space in existing buildings must be allocated consistent with our institutional goals and objectives and to remedy critical space shortages.

Key Points About Space Management Guidelines

  • They should be conceptually simple, consolidating various formulaic elements into single standards whenever possible
  • They should be administered flexibly, encouraging creativity at campus, provostial, vice presidential, School/College and departmental levels
  • They should be interpreted broadly and not become highly specific design standards where exact sizes of rooms are dictated without regard to need, function or facility constraints
  • They should be accompanied by strong accountability and reporting requirements
  • They should be reviewed on a regular basis
  • They should not be changed unless a compelling case for change can be demonstrated *.

    * A Capacity for Learning: Revising Space and Utilization Standards for California Public Higher Education. California Post Secondary Education Commission, Summary, 1990.

Space Planning Principles

UB adheres to principles in planning for new space and the management of all space for the University at Buffalo — whether located on campus or off-campus. These principles apply to all university units — academic, administrative, housing and student services.

Space Management Processes

Criteria for Establishing Space Need

Conclusion

The foregoing principles and processes will govern the planning for use and review and reassignment of our physical space in a rational, flexible manner. Not only will these formulations guide our internal planning, but create the management structure and the information analyses that guide the creation of a long-range capital facilities master plan and the case for capital investment we can make with our public land to private benefactors.

Contact an Expert

Kelly M Hayes Mcalonie.

Kelly M. Hayes Mcalonie FAIA, LEED AP

Director

Campus Planning

119V John Beane Center

Phone: 716-645-2989

Email: kmhayesm@buffalo.edu