Quick Facts.

Client: Northwestern Michigan College

Location: Traverse City, Michigan

Size: 66,300 sf

Completion Date: 2021

Project Type.

Higher Education

Awards.

Project Description.

Northwestern Michigan College, West Hall Innovation Center is the repurposing and expansion of a 51-year-old obsolete building, centrally located on the main campus in Traverse City, Michigan. In addition to the 20,000-sf renovation, the total 62,000-sf project generates a triple bottom line of Equity, Environment and Economics for both the college and the community. The entire space, with the exception of security areas, is open to the public 24/7 and provides equitable resources to students, staff and the community.

With 11 learn labs, 18 informal small group learning spaces, a library, and a cafeteria, the building visually connects people to place through transparency. The basement, formerly the college bookstore, has been opened into a two-story atrium with learning spaces designed to encourage greater interconnection and productivity. These small group learning spaces are enclosed by glass encouraging collaborative learning experiences and impromptu peer-to-peer interaction. There is no hierarchy of active and quiet learning spaces, with users choosing the best environment suited for their needs, from comfortable soft seating and communal tables to traditional tables and chairs. With no defined dining space, the cafeteria encourages users to eat and work anywhere within the building, including the library.

The building strives to set a foundation for empathy and emotional intelligence by being open and flexible for all. To minimize the environmental impact, this project operates autonomously from the campus power plant, incorporates superior stormwater management, and focuses on the use of renewable energy sources. The introduction of 60 geothermal wells significantly reduces reliance on fossil fuels, proving economic and environmental benefits. Retaining and naturally processing all of the stormwater generated from the building and site, the project is located within one of 15 separate stormwater districts created in the 2014 Campus Master Plan. The building has two separate underground stormwater infiltrators and a retention basin that eliminates any stormwater from entering the city stormwater system.

The interior finishes include bamboo paneling, non-VOC coatings, and carpeting from recycled content, further reducing the building’s environmental impact. By adapting the existing building for long term use, the flexible design of this project allows the space to be continuously rearranged and adapted for change without the need for continual reconstruction, cost, nor waste.

West Hall Innovation Center serves as both a college and community asset protecting against future risks and vulnerabilities. Designed to embrace equitable access for students, professors, and community members, it encourages collaborative working across the region and lasting relationships which help retain talent. A true community center, this building will be a lasting edifice that can adapt to support future requirements of the college and the community.

Services Provided.