The Sanctuary at Southern New Hampshire University will be a place for reflection, contemplation, intimate gatherings, ceremony, music, dance, and special events. Surrounded by the bucolic New Hampshire landscape, the building celebrates its campus setting by carefully framing views of the forest and opening two internal courtyards up to the sky.
Currently in the concept design phase, the Sanctuary will sit at the edge of campus, becoming a destination at the eastern end of a pedestrian spine and a place from which to explore the nearby Arboretum’s woodland paths.
From the street, the Sanctuary is partially hidden; the building reveals itself only with active discovery. Visitors enter through a small enclosed courtyard that creates a layered relationship between inside and out. The Great Hall is a versatile, light-filled space that supports not only dance but a variety of other events, hoping to bring together the campus and the public during all times of the day and year.
