The new Research and Development Student Hall at Rochester Institute of Technology is a unique building that serves as the gateway 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 practice their craft.
As you enter the $120 million building, you’ll be greeted by a theater space located next to the glass-walled production rooms. The theater overlooks a crescent-shaped atrium, creating a unique environment for creativity and collaboration. The production areas are equipped with a wide range of benches and machine tools connected to the ceiling by electrical cables and exhaust hoods. The garage-style doors in these spaces open to invite passers-by to observe the innovative projects being developed within.
The design of the Student Research and Development Room encourages interaction and research among students and faculty members. It provides a dynamic environment for creative expression and innovation, blurring the lines between different disciplines and encouraging 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 Research and Development Hall is a testament to RIT’s commitment to providing its students with a state-of-the-art learning environment.
Inside the hall, visitors can see two transparent cubes where theater actors and dance students practice their craft. These cubes offer an unparalleled view of their rehearsals, allowing them to see every detail of their performances.
The production areas are equipped with a wide range of benches and machine tools connected to the ceiling by electrical cables and exhaust hoods. These tools allow for innovative projects to be developed within the space.
The garage-style doors in these spaces open to invite passersby to observe the projects being developed within.
Overall, the design of the Student Research and Development Room encourages interaction