Ayers Saint Gross Designs New University of Arizona Scottsdale Center

The University of Arizona Scottsdale Center is officially open, giving the university a new presence in Old Town Scottsdale and a powerful link to its main Tucson campus. Designed by Ayers Saint Gross the 15,600-square-foot space serves students faculty staff alumni and community partners with a mix of admissions functions government and community relations alumni outreach and flexible workspaces.

The University of Arizona Foundation purchased the building in 2022 to expand the university’s reach. Ayers Saint Gross responded with an approach that honors the school’s heritage while creating a forward-looking hub built for connection.

“We are proud to have designed a space that connects the University of Arizona to its larger community” says Joel Fidler President of Ayers Saint Gross. “The Center aligns with our goals to create places that promote engagement foster exchange of ideas and advance universities’ missions.”

Acting as a true campus embassy the Scottsdale Center tells the story of U of A through architecture experiential design and a strong sense of place. Visitors enter through a topography wall that mirrors the terrain between Tucson and Scottsdale. Custom terrazzo floors embed lyrics from the alma mater while angled divider strips and a suspended wood ceiling use pattern and geometry to symbolize connection—Tucson and Scottsdale academics and athletics alumni and current students.

Throughout the center experiential elements reinforce the Wildcat identity. University colors flow through the space alongside photo installations a dynamic picture flap wall a lenticular feature and graphics that highlight achievements across disciplines.

By blending brand storytelling collaboration and community engagement Ayers Saint Gross created more than a satellite office. The Scottsdale Center is a celebratory and forward-thinking embassy that reflects U of A’s mission to expand human potential explore new horizons and enrich life for all.

University of Arizona Scottsdale Center. Courtesy Ayers Saint Gross.