Etchings above Hitt Hall entrances represents multifaceted building
Designers unveils heraldry set of three, each one above an entrance of the new building
May 22, 2022
Above the main entrance of many Virginia Tech buildings lies etchings to signify its impact. The heraldry, similar to that of a coat of arms, tells a story and for Hitt Hall, the symbolism tells three. Above each distinct entrance — Myers-Lawson School of Construction, Perry Place, and Provost — you find the carefully and thoughtfully designed art pieces. Each is part of a fractal, a mathematical, indefinitely complex shape. The concept is also tied to Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs which acts as a five-tier model to describe physical and psychological needs.
The designs represent the collaborative process between Myers-Lawson, Cooper Carry, and The Office of University Planning at Virginia Tech.
Myers-Lawson School of Construction entrance Hitt Hall Heraldry. Design by Office of University Planning and Cooper Carry.
Myers-Lawson's entrance is made of one of the strongest shapes in construction — triangles. The repeating pattern mimics that of many famous buildings around the world. The shape boasts a strong base with durable and lasting support. As part of Maslow's theory, the triangle also represents the need for shelter. This was also inspired by the Myers-Lawson School of Construction's mission to be a beacon of innovation in creating the next generation of industry leaders. According to the designers, the pattern radiates out from the center to represent that beacon.
Perry Place, which will serve as the home to the university's newest dining hall, is symbolized by an abstract version of wheat. The mealtime staple represents the need for food in Maslow's theory. The chevron pattern, which is a common heraldry motif, is a "v" shape for Virginia Tech.
Perry Place entrance Hitt Hall Heraldry. Design by Office of University Planning and Cooper Carry.
The Provost Entrance, which is home to additional general-use classroom space, is represented by information transferring and traveling through neurons in the brain. The designers symbolized the neurons as stars between the triangular connections. This represents the highest level of Maslow's hierarchy, self-actualization.
According to the designers, each fractal, which is neverending, represents the multitude of needs that Hitt Hall will fulfill.
Provost Entrance at Hitt Hall. Design by Office of University Planning and Cooper Carry.
