The new Student Hall for Exploration and Development at the Rochester Institute of Technology is a one-of-a-kind building that serves as the entrance to the campus. Unlike traditional academic buildings on campus, this 180,000-square-foot facility does not showcase robotics or engineering feats. Instead, visitors can peer into two transparent cubes where theater actors and dance students are practicing their craft.
As you enter the $120 million building, you will first be greeted by a theater space adjacent to glass-walled maker spaces. The theater overlooks a crescent-shaped atrium, creating a unique environment for creativity and collaboration. The maker spaces are equipped with a wide range of benches and machine tools that are connected to the ceiling with electrical cords and exhaust hoods. Garage-style doors in these spaces open up to invite passersby to observe the innovative projects being developed within.
The design of the Student Hall for Exploration and Development encourages interaction and exploration among students and faculty members. It provides a dynamic environment for creative expression and innovation, blurring the lines between different disciplines and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration. The building symbolizes RIT’s commitment to experiential learning and hands-on education, offering students a space to explore, experiment, and develop their talents. With its unique features and state-of-the-art facilities, the Student Hall for Exploration and Development is a testament to RIT’s dedication to providing a cutting-edge learning environment for its students.