Virtual Design and Construction Technology helped design MIT’s new accelerator facility
By David Malone, Associate Editor
Located in “the most innovative square mile on the planet” in Cambridge’s Innovation District, The Engine represents a new accelerator facility and incubator space for the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
Designed by SGA, the 26,000-sf innovation hub will support technologies that are slow to develop and often take years to bring in revenue. These technologies will included robotics, manufacturing, medical devices, and energy. The facility will provide technical facilities, financial stability, specialized equipment, streamlined business services, connections to influential alumni, and experts in a variety of fields.
Virtual Design and Construction technology was used heavily in the design process. SGA virtually rendered The Engine’s reception, cafe, and training areas. Using this technology helped “MIT envision the space and expedite stakeholder decisions,” according to SGA Partner Adam Spagnolo.
The Engine is jointly backed by MIT and additional venture capital funding, including Massachusetts luminaries such as Robert Kraft (Owner of the New England Patriots).
