University of Toledo’s College of Engineering provides educational, administrative, community, lab and experimental space for students and staff in an environment that encourages and supports collaboration and strategic partnerships with over 20 corporate partners.
University of Toledo’s College of Engineering provides educational, administrative, community, lab and experimental space for students and staff in an environment that encourages and supports collaboration and strategic partnerships with over 20 corporate partners. Comprised of five buildings, the College of Engineering sought to consolidate Palmer Hall, an undersized facility with insufficient infrastructure, into the high-bay of North Engineering which was originally constructed in the 1920’s as a glass factory.
This first phase of this design included the complete reclad of the existing 25,000 SF high-bay with a combination of architectural metal panels, curtainwall and storefront, providing a vibrant, high quality envelope to anchor the north end of the College of Engineering. Phase 1 also included preliminary demolition of remaining components within the high-bay, including the observation mezzanine which originally supported manufacturing functions. At the end of demolition, 3D scanning of the complex interior was performed to provide crucial information on structural and infrastructural components that will be altered/impacted in future phases of construction.
The second and third phases seek to completely redefine how engineering education is delivered, focusing on highly collaborative spaces that encourage interaction between faculty, students, and corporations. Over 50,000 SF of new space will be infilled within the existing high-bay, and an additional 20,000 SF of classrooms, commons, and support space will be renovated. Key elements include not only state-of-the-art educational space, but highly collaborative commons. Organization of the program around a central atrium and stair provides exceptional student experience and encourages collaborative collisions.
The Maker Space serves as a highly visible feature that connects the high-bay to Nitchke Hall and creates significant possibilities for collaboration with external industry. A portion of the high-bay, the Turbine Lab, is currently being leased by the Department of Defense.
Mechanical and electrical systems are completely new, since the existing high-bay has retained its original heat only system. Five high efficiency air handlers with heat wheels will be located in existing spaces, including three in the formerly unusable basement. Each will be connected to the existing chilled water plant. Electrical systems will expand distribution to the previously upgraded 15kv service. Collaborative and instructional technology will be provided in all classrooms, labs, and common spaces.
