Convergence is a process or state of coming together, where flows and currents meet and evolve together in a shared environment. Convergence celebrates the thriving, vibrant, and rich heritage of excellence of the University of Nebraska Medical Center through materialized concepts that embed change, transformation, and contemplation. The project incorporates the most advanced methods and innovations in digital and robotic fabrication with the integration of timeless and contextually sensitive materials that interact with the sun and human perception. Convergence is both inspirational and forward-looking and contemplative and present. The project features stainless steel wire arc additive manufacturing through robotic 3D printing, CNC polycarbonate panels laminated with a wavelength-dependent dichroic film, and stainless steel rings. As a set of integrated material relationships, the design for Convergence incorporates part-to-whole 3D printed and machined component strategies to realize a project that celebrates lightness, dynamic structure, and equilibrium through equal and opposite forces. Taking inspiration from the University of Nebraska’s Medical Center’s pivotal role in global health through their response and leadership in both the Ebola epidemic and now the Coronavirus pandemic, Convergence celebrates people coming together from around the world, converging. Through part-to-whole, individual, and collective, the project reflects and celebrates the faculty, doctors, students, researchers, administrators, and community champions — that have left their mark and defined UNMC’s past, present, and future. Sited in the new Northwall Plaza, Convergence serves as the outdoor threshold to the buildings and the campus welcome center, facilitating an ideal setting for conversations, fellowship, and engagement by students and faculty.
