Client:
Louisiana State University,
Size:
438,000 SF
Completion Date:
December 2017
Renovate and expand the existing Patrick F. Taylor Hall building to unify all engineering disciplines into one facility
Improve and define the external pedestrian flow and internal circulation
Serve an increasing enrollment population and improve national curriculum rankings
Create a collaborative and flexible environment to foster “hands-on” problem solving and an evolving teaching pedagogy
AIA Honor Award
Gold Rose
AIA Baton Rouge
2019
The facility features state-of-the-art teaching laboratories, gathering spaces and commons area, 250-seat auditorium, classrooms and faculty & staff offices. Conversion of the exterior courtyards into interior collaborative engineering workshops, various student interaction areas, and an “engineering on display” tour route provide a dynamic learning environment that promotes problem-based teaching.
Designed to accommodate evolving teaching methods and the changing demands for engineering specialties, flexible uses of the spaces were considered throughout. It is the largest academic building in Louisiana and one of the largest freestanding engineering academic buildings in the United States.
The existing 1970’s modernist façade was removed and replaced with an architectural precast concrete and glass design to complement the historic architecture of LSU. Consideration was given to both the exterior pedestrian flow and interior circulation. New student common areas and a large atrium connecting the addition to the existing facility improve and simplify the building’s circulation. The use of transparency, natural light, and carefully designed circulation allow easy navigation for students, staff, and visitors.
