The Applied Innovation Hub at Central Connecticut State University puts engineering on display and creates a dynamic new academic facility for technology focused programs. A transparent ground floor lobby and multi-purpose lounge space overlooking a hive of activity immediately outside its walls, in combination with open student spaces throughout, promote the significance of the 93,000-sf building as a place of innovation, interdisciplinary education, and university-wide congregation. Designers were challenged to accommodate the functional program, harness the best value for the $44.8M construction budget, embrace flexibility with both technology infrastructure and space, and achieve energy performance and sustainability goals.

The facility serves as the primary new home for engineering department spaces in CCSU’s School of Engineering, Science and Technology, as well as computer and general-purpose classroom spaces available to the overall university. Lab, classroom, student project, and faculty spaces support both undergraduate and graduate programs in mechanical, electrical, computer, and civil engineering. Featured elements in the Applied Innovation Hub include a robotics lab for CCSU’s robust robotics program and a 30’ high material testing structures lab. Multiple dedicated student project rooms and open collaborative areas are located on each level to promote project-based learning. A 180-seat lecture hall off the main entry common space provides space for scheduled classes and special programmed events. A student services advising and career space, also directly off the main lobby, fosters ease of access to CCSU’s diverse student body.