Purchase College, SUNY

Purchase College, SUNY, a unique institution born from Governor Nelson Rockefeller's vision, stands as a testament to Modernist architecture and innovative campus planning. Master planned in 1967 by Edward Larrabee Barnes, the campus was conceived as a 'city within the country,' clustering buildings around a central plaza and embracing the surrounding landscape. Distinguished architects such as Philip Johnson, Norman Fletcher, and Venturi & Rauch contributed individual designs, unified by a masterly use of brick. Founded in 1971, Purchase College distinguishes itself by combining rigorous liberal arts studies with premier conservatory programs in visual and performing arts. Located on a 500-acre campus 35 miles north of New York City, the college provides a dynamic environment where creativity and critical thinking flourish. The architectural design fosters collaboration and interdisciplinary engagement, reflecting the college's motto to 'Think Wide Open'. Purchase College continues to evolve, maintaining its commitment to outstanding design while nurturing the next generation of artists, scholars, and innovators.