Glen-Gery's Reclaimed-Waste Bricks Clad Princeton's Frist Health Centre
The Frist Health Centre at Princeton University in Princeton, New Jersey, features a facade of reclaimed manufacturing waste in burgundy brickwork. This material, known as Ponderosa Western, is sourced from Glen-Gery, a North American manufacturer, and utilizes remnants from their production. The bricks are arranged in a horizontal running bond pattern, showcasing sharp edges and a mix of velour, grooved, and sanded textures. Designed to harmonize with the Gothic brickwork of Eno Hall, constructed in 1924, the building employs metal sunshades to minimize solar heat gain and includes mineral wool insulation for enhanced energy efficiency. Surrounding courtyards and green roofs create a tranquil environment for students and faculty. The 76,500-square-foot facility, which focuses on holistic health and student wellbeing, opened in 2025 and was recognized by AIA New York State for its biophilic design and adaptive reuse. Glen-Gery is known for custom facades for various institutions across North America. Photography is credited to Glen-Gery, with video content produced by Dezeen in collaboration with the manufacturer.
Key facts
- The Frist Health Centre at Princeton University is clad in Glen-Gery's Ponderosa Western bricks from the Western Series
- The bricks incorporate materials recovered from Glen-Gery's own manufacturing process
- Bricks were laid in a horizontal running bond pattern with velour, grooved and sanded surface finishes
- The facade complements the Gothic brickwork of Eno Hall, constructed in 1924
- Metal sunshades reduce solar heat gain and mineral wool insulation sits behind the brickwork
- AIA New York State recognised the project for biophilic design and adaptive reuse
- The 76,500-square-foot facility opened on the Princeton campus in 2025
- Glen-Gery is a North American manufacturer specialising in custom facades for cultural, residential and educational institutions
Entities
Institutions
- Glen-Gery
- Princeton University
- AIA New York State
- Dezeen
- Eno Hall
Locations
- Princeton
- New Jersey
- United States
- New York State
Sources
- Dezeen —