Alice L. Walton School of Medicine

Innovating Medical Education Through Design at The Alice L. Walton School of Medicine

Bentonville, AR

Reimagining Spaces for Learning Nestled next to the picturesque Crystal Bridges Museum, the Alice L. Walton School of Medicine (AWOM) in Bentonville isn’t just another medical school; it’s a beacon of architectural and educational innovation. On a sprawling 14-acre site, this 154,000-square-foot marvel is designed not just to teach but to inspire.

Engineering Meets Aesthetics The highlight of AWOM is its extensive green roof, an architectural gem that cascades from the entrance to the roof, blending seamlessly with the natural surroundings. This isn’t just for show; it’s a critical element of the school’s sustainability efforts. Hidden beneath this verdant expanse is a state-of-the-art leak detection system, meticulously designed to preemptively address any potential issues, safeguarding the building’s future.

Structural Feats and Smart Solutions The building’s ambitious design includes an 87-foot cantilever and multi-story trusses supporting massive steel members, a feat achieved with the expertise of a renowned engineering consultant. This structural prowess was matched by the curtain wall system, a complex puzzle of angled mullions and brass fins that required innovative thinking and precision.

A Model of Modern Construction Using BIM from the start, the team preempted and resolved clashes between the myriad of sophisticated systems within AWOM. Every challenge, from the advanced curtain wall to the extensive green roof, was met with sophisticated technical solutions, setting a new standard for construction excellence.

Project Facts

Industry Sector: Educational
Size: 154,000 SF School | 64,600 SF Parking Garage
Delivery Method: Construction Management
Self-Perform: Earthwork, Steel Erection, Concrete
Owner: AWSOM Lands, LLC
Architect: Polk Stanley Wilcox
Engineer: Martin/Martin Consulting Engineers