Editor,
We have serious problems with two of the structures on Main Campus - Ortega Hall and the Humanities Building, also known as Onate Hall.
For starters, they're hideous. Blocky, rough masses of concrete that try to capture some of the pueblo-revival style UNM is known for, yet lack all the grace and dignity of Zimmerman Library just across the plaza.
They are a mockery of John Gaw Meem's classic architectural style. They're unpleasant. Not only are both buildings in need of some renovation, but the way the buildings are designed - helped especially by elevated walkway - creates dark spaces and hidden nooks and crannies.
These buildings were designed during a strange time - after the campus riots of the 1970s, I believe - when structures were meant for fortification almost as much for education. Finally, and most importantly, they're
impractical.
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Ortega Hall is supposed to be UNM's home for foreign language studies, yet many language classes do not take place there. They instead are held at Dane Smith Hall and some in Mitchell Hall. I recall an earlier letter to the Daily Lobo from someone who took a Spanish class in Johnson Gym.
The Humanities Building has acquired a strange mix of uses over time - you'll find not only the department of English and literature, but also the math
department, some foreign language stuff and a few other things.
I think there's really no saving these buildings. Both of these structures should be torn down. In their place, something marvelous could be built. A top-notch language center could replace Ortega Hall - one that will be able to meet the needs and demands of our foreign language departments. The Humanities Building should be just for humanities, and proper homes should be found for the other departments in the building.
This could create a far better organization of our departments, which would reduce confusion and free up class space in other buildings.
John Perry
UNM student
