A Student-Built Home Showcasing Sustainable Design
Studio 804 is a nationally recognized, not for profit design‑build program at the
University of Kansas that gives graduate architecture students rare, hands-on experience designing and constructing a full-scale home from start to finish. Each year, students manage every phase of the process—from land acquisition and design development to material selection and construction—bridging the gap between architectural education and real-world building practice.
Designing a Modern, Sustainable Home
The 2025 Studio 804 home was conceived as a contemporary residence that blends seamlessly into its surrounding neighborhood while demonstrating forward-thinking design principles. Sustainability, material honesty, and constructability were core goals, influencing every design decision—from layout and detailing to finishes and performance considerations.
Students gained firsthand experience coordinating permits, managing schedules, and collaborating with industry partners—skills that are increasingly critical for emerging architects.
Columbia Forest Products’ Role in the 2025 Project
Columbia Forest Products was proud to support Studio 804 House 2025 by supplying 75 sheets of Appalachian Traditions™ hardwood plywood in the finish Hampton Maple. The material was selected for its natural warmth, clean aesthetic, and suitability for modern residential interiors.
Columbia plywood was used throughout the home, including:
- Kitchen cabinetry creating a warm, welcoming focal point
- Stairway elements highlighting the plywood’s consistent veneer quality
- Loft and accessory dwelling unit interiors for visual continuity
Hands-On Architecture Education That Makes an Impact
Studio 804’s immersive process prepares students to enter the profession with confidence. By physically building what they design, students develop a stronger appreciation for construction complexity, collaboration, and material craftsmanship. Each completed home represents both a finished residence and a comprehensive educational experience.
Columbia's Forest Products is proud to support a program that empowers students to design responsibly, build skillfully, and carry those values into their professional careers.