With limited resources, the project began as a remodel of a 1960s academic building. HSS uncovered an opportunity to provide a new 34,000sf building within the existing budget – designed efficiently around program needs, including an administrative wing for faculty offices, conference center, Auto Lab with specialized classrooms, 24 bays with lifts to accommodate large vehicle repairs, material storage, and required safety zones. The building is designed with sliding walls for flexibility and seasonal connection to outdoor display/gathering areas.
Much like a maintenance yard with a public, campus-facing component, this Automotive Technology Center blends practical, economical and technological design considerations with an awareness that the building design must also be considered. Not only does the building sit proudly on the campus, but it flows well, creates flexible spaces for inevitable changes ahead, and inspires safety, collaboration and best practices among the many that work, teach and learn there.