Student Organization Spotlight: Architecture Club

Though this club may be historically small in numbers, it is rich in community, off-campus expeditions and understanding connections with other disciplines.

The Calvin Architecture Club, though comprised mainly of students that are part of Calvin’s relatively small architecture minor, welcomes all who are interested in any kind of architecture—anything from looking at interesting buildings to rearranging furniture to studying sustainability in construction.

“What we talk about is relevant for anyone with an interest in design, construction, buildings and for people who are interested in jobs that will involve working with architects, such as engineers and electricians,” said Nicole Reenders, a member of the club’s leadership.

Reenders, a senior French major and architecture minor, highlighted the off-campus trips of Architecture Club as a big draw for interested students.

Every year, members take a trip to the Meyer May House, a Frank Lloyd Wright-designed house located in the Heritage Hill Historic District of Grand Rapids. The club also pays visits to graduate schools with architecture programs and goes to architecture firms to talk with architects about their work.

Last year, the group took a trip to Chicago to see some more Frank Lloyd Wright buildings and look at Millennium Park from an architectural point of view.

Reenders said that the club also periodically volunteers with Habitat for Humanity, which does housing restorations and renovations.