Johnson & Wales University, John J. Bowen Center for Science and Innovation
Providence, Rhode Island
Design team:
Dimeo Construction (Construction Manager), Odeh Engineers (Structural Engineering), Thorton Tomasetti (LEED Consultant), Woodard & Curran (Civil Engineering), BR+A (M/E/P/FP Engineering), Birchwood Design Group (Landscape Architect)
The John J. Bowen Center for Science and Innovation is one of the first projects to be completed in support of the I-195 redevelopment effort that the City of Providence and State of Rhode Island are undertaking. The new three-story science and engineering building expands Johnson & Wales University’s longtime commitment to interdisciplinary and experiential learning. This building serves the School of Engineering & Design and the John Hazel White College of Arts & Sciences’ Biology Program.
The space consists of four science labs; 19 classrooms including technology and computer labs; presentation space; faculty offices; and a café. They all combine to create a collaborative and interdisciplinary learning environment. The lobby is used as a gallery to display project work and host events. At street level is an Innovation Laboratory / Maker’s Space featuring wide windows with display areas that enable pedestrians to see in; it is an active engineering lab.
Classroom and team learning spaces can be reconfigured easily throughout the day. Classrooms and labs are designed to host all styles of instruction and learning methods. The engineering labs, where students receive hands-on instruction in computer programming, robotics, computer-aided design, and related technology courses, are designed with equipment placed on the perimeter of the room. Movable work tables are placed in the center of the room, and open ceilings provide easy access to the electrical, mechanical, and data infrastructure. Breakout spaces for individual and team projects are mingled with the classrooms and labs.
The design creates a central hub on campus where students and faculty come together and benefit from a variety of spaces to meet, collaborate on projects, and use the technology resources for hands-on learning.
The building aims to achieve LEED Silver certification and comply with National Grid’s Advanced Buildings Program for increased energy efficiency.
Additional Information
Associated Firm
Architectural Resources Cambridge, Inc.
Capacity
645
Featured in
2017 Architectural Portfolio
Product suppliers specified
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