The building program is made up of four distinct areas: Advanced Manufacturing, a Makerspace, Educational Spaces, and Staff Offices. The Advanced Manufacturing area was designed as a raw, large open space to be rented to private companies. These companies, in turn, provide engineering students the opportunity to collaborate with professionals. The Makerspace, located between Advancing Manufacturing and the Innovations Commons (a large gathering area), houses the latest in manufacturing and 3D printing equipment.
LEED Gold Design Rooted in
Built with sustainability in mind, the building achieved a LEED Gold Rating. The site was designed with several windmills—built and installed by students as part of their curriculum—to provide integrated clean energy. Interior high-performance LEDs provides functional, low-energy lighting and are key design elements within the space. The radiant concrete floor allows for comfortable and efficient heating/cooling in a large space while evoking an old factory floor. Custom metal shading systems and sun controls help mitigate heat gain and provide natural light throughout the space.
