The new UMSSW building is projected to open in time for the fall 2027 semester.
The new University of Maryland School of Social Work (UMSSW) building has yet to welcome its first class, but its design is already making a statement.
“Beautiful exterior, plain and simple.”
That was the assessment from the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Louisiana jury that reviewed entries for the AIA Maryland Excellence in Design Awards. The Maryland chapter of the AIA recognized Ballinger’s design for the building in the Unbuilt Architecture — Commissioned category.
For the team behind the project at the University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB), the recognition reflects years of work translating social work values into a place where students, employees, and neighbors can feel welcome.
“I want to congratulate Ballinger for their design leadership, and the dozens of talented professionals behind the creation of our new School of Social Work building for being recognized by Maryland AIA,” said UMSSW Dean Judy Postmus, PhD, ACSW. “The engaging spaces, sustainable design, evocative artwork, and soft touches are among the many features echoing social work values that will be visible throughout our new home. I cannot wait to welcome our students, employees, and neighbors into a space built for the next generation of changemakers.”
Rob Voss, a senior principal at Ballinger, said the honor extends beyond the architects and consultants to the university partners who helped make the design possible.
“I think it’s wonderful for the team to be recognized,” Voss said. “And when I say the team, it really includes not just Ballinger and its consultants as the design team, but also all the folks from the university, and the University System of Maryland that help.”
The 127,400-square-foot, six-story building at North Greene and West Lexington streets will bring together a school spread across four locations. Its design includes community gathering areas, stunning art, and an elevated outdoor space for events and collaboration.
Those welcoming features took shape through conversations about what a social work building should feel like. Feedback through town halls, workshops, surveys, and multiple group discussions were all poured into the final design.
UMB senior project manager Michael Dougherty, RA, CCM, M.Arch., MFA, said an early, squared-off design evolved after Postmus pushed for something warmer and more dynamic. Rounded corners, a bright atrium, and public spaces became part of that response.
“It was very important to the dean and the school that the project be warm, open, bright, inviting, and soft,” Dougherty said.
UMSSW Business Operations Manager Justin Hanna, MS, MSL ’23, who is helping coordinate the school’s move, said bringing community programs into the building will allow neighbors to access services at street level. Shared colors, furnishings, and finishes will connect spaces while allowing individual programs to retain their identities.