University of Illinois Chicago’s new learning center doubles the computer science department’s previous capacity

At the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC), the recently completed Computer Design, Research, and Learning Center (CDRLC) serves as the new home of the university’s computer science department. 

With a curving form that offers visual and physical access to the campus green space, CDRLC doubles the previous capacity of UIC’s computer science department, which had spread faculty, staff, and classes across four campus buildings. The project was funded through a $129.8 million allocation from the University of Illinois Board of Trustees and donor contributions.

Organized around a five-story, light-filled atrium, the 135,000-sf building provides 16,000 sf of classroom space, 21 faculty research labs, a 1,200-sf robotics lab, offices, and lounges. Visible from the atrium, the robotics and visualization labs showcase research and innovation. The central atrium also connects the building with the existing Science and Engineering Lab Building.

The atrium is anchored by Scala, a 40-by-40-foot, 17,000-pound art installation of undulating octagonal forms created from solid poplar by Chicago artists Edra Soto and Dan Sullivan.

The first two floors house learning environments, dedicated student spaces, and an undergraduate learning center, while the upper three levels provide faculty offices, graduate research spaces, and specialized labs. Amenities include open study areas, a cafe, and a multipurpose event room.

Emphasizing warmth and vitality, the design materials include refined precast concrete panels, bronze detailing, terra cotta accents, and wood finishes. Interior elements also feature a bronze mesh screen, curving walls, and bursts of color, creating moments of delight throughout the space, according to a statement from design architect LMN.

As part of the project’s sustainability strategy, a geothermal field supports passive heating and cooling, while the glazing has been designed for daylighting and comfort. UIC is seeking LEED Gold certification for the building.

On the building team: University of Illinois Chicago (owner), LMN Architects (design architect), Booth Hansen (executive architect), TERRA Engineering (civil engineer), Magnusson Klemencic Associates (structural engineer), SITE Design Group (landscape architect), Affiliated Engineers (MEP engineer), W.E. O’Neil Construction (contractor).