Departments

Facilities Planning & Space Information

The Facilities Planning and Space Information department provides a long-term perspective on University space with respect to its development, use and management.  The department identifies ways to put all University space resources to their "highest and best use." It also defines and negotiate space exchanges between University departments and groups.

The space planning and programming groups provide early stage coordination and advice on complex capital projects to make sure key elements work together to fulfill the projects' purposes and needs such as:

  • Project definition
  • Programming
  • Legal approvals
  • Real estate negotiations
  • Major design decisions
  • Major operating decisions

The Space Information group keeps track of all University space, except at CUMC, on computerized (CAD) floor plans and linked databases. CAD plans, space assignment, occupancy and square footage information are available to Facilities personnel and other authorized University users. Information requests should be directed to April Billups, Assistant Director of Space Information, at: ab1227@columbia.edu. Detailed campus and neighborhood maps are also available on CAD.

Construction and engineering drawings are filed in CUF's Plan Room. Access can be arranged through Stephen Poller, Plan Room Archivist, at sgp6@columbia.edu.

Below is list of the steps that may be taken during a typical space planning project:

    • Information Gathering
    • Surveys of existing conditions
    • Interviews with users
    • Specialized studies (engineering, zoning, etc.)
  • Preliminary Space Program
  • Test Fits
  • Approvals by (a) clients (b) senior administration (c) funding entities
  • Project Transfer Form to CPM
  • Ongoing involvement/consulting through design and construction