Add as a preferred source on Google

Florida Polytechnic University Debuts New Applied Research Center

  • By Matt Jones
  • 09/15/22

Florida Polytechnic University in Lakeland, Fla., recently held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for its new, $47-million Applied Research Center. The facility measures in at more than 90,000 square feet, according to a university news release, and it houses amenities like research and teaching laboratories, student design space, faculty offices and conference rooms, and study spaces. It also doubles the campus’ available lab and research space and aims to position Florida Polytechnic as one of the state’s leading STEM institutions.

The university partnered with architecture firm HOK and construction and development firm Skanska for the project. The building as received a LEED Silver certification and contains sustainability features like an insulated glazing system and reflective curtain wall.

“It is always a pleasure when we can partner with a long-term client like Florida Polytechnic University,” said Michael C. Brown, executive vice president and general manager of Skanska’s Florida building operations. “Our team is honored to deliver another state-of-the-art academic building that will afford the university more space to advance its STEM curriculum. Skanska has established itself as a leader in higher education construction, and as Florida continues to experience an influx of people and companies, we recognize that the state’s need for more academic space will continue to grow—and we stand ready to help address that demand.”

The project’s construction began in fall 2019, and the finished building stands in the northwest side of campus. Its architecture and design deliberately complements the nearby Innovation, Science and Technology (IST) Building, also built by Skanska and completed in 2014.

“The future is bright for Florida Poly, and our ambitions are high,” said University President Randy Avent. Our goal is to be a premier STEM university known for producing highly desirable graduates and new technology solutions. I strongly believe that with the new Applied Research Center, we are charging full speed toward that goal.”

About the Author

Matt Jones is senior editor of Spaces4Learning. He can be reached at [email protected].

Featured

  • University of Kansas Opens $400M Football Stadium Reconstruction

    The University of Kansas in Lawrence, Kan., recently announced that the $400-million reconstruction of David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium is complete in time for the 2025 football season, according to a news release. The university partnered with Turner Construction Company on the project.

  • South Texas K–12 District Debuts Region’s First Electric Bus Fleet

    The Valley View Independent School District in Pharr, Texas, recently announced a partnership with Highland Electric Fleets to launch the district’s—and the region’s—first fleet of all-electric school buses, according to a news release.

  • Beyond Four Walls

    Operable glass walls provide a dynamic solution for educational spaces. They align with today’s evolving teaching methods and adapt to the needs of modern learners. Beyond the functional versatility, movable glass walls offer clean, contemporary aesthetics, slim and unobtrusive profiles, and versatile configurations that cater to the evolving needs of students and educators alike.

  • Creating Long-Term Sustainability on College Campuses Through Fair Student Housing

    The quality of student housing can have a significant impact on an individual’s college experience. Today’s higher education institutions face mounting challenges, including declining enrollment, low retention rates between the first and second years, and a rise in student mental health concerns. Thoughtfully designed living spaces can help address these issues by creating environments that promote both academic focus and personal well-being.

Digital Edition