Oregon Institute of Technology to Construct $35M Mass Timber Residence Hall

Oregon Institute of Technology in Klamath Falls, Ore., recently announced the construction of a new, $35-million mass timber residence hall, according to college news. The facility will stand four stories, have room for 517 students, and cover 86,710 square feet to address the college’s need for more on-campus housing. Construction has an estimated completion date of December 2025.

The facility was designed to showcase its mass timber construction, a deliberate move toward reducing the building’s carbon footprint. The goal is to create a warm, high-quality, long-lasting space for students to relax and collaborate. Students participated in the steering committee that guided the new space’s aesthetic.

“This new residence hall demonstrates how Oregon Tech continues to lead in sustainability and innovation while addressing the needs of our growing student community,” said Dr. Nagi Naganathan, Oregon Tech President. “With support from the Oregon Legislature and the Office of the Governor, Oregon Tech is constructing one of the first residence halls in Oregon to utilize mass timber floors and roofs with panelized wood frame walls, and it will serve as a landmark example of carbon-efficient construction in higher education.”

The college is partnering with Bogatay Construction, Inc., also based in Klamath Falls, for the project’s construction. The news release reports that 89% of the project’s work is coming from firms within a 100-mile radius of campus.

“Using prefabricated CLT panels reduces labor, material waste, and the building’s carbon footprint, all while creating a high-quality, safe living environment for students,” said Matt Bogatay, Bogatay Construction President.

About the Author

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

Featured

  • Designing Third Spaces That Do What AI Can't

    In 2026, education is evolving faster than ever. With AI reshaping everything from lesson planning to personalized instruction, schools and universities are turning their attention to what AI can’t replicate: spaces that foster collaboration, community, and creativity.

  • UCF Modernizes College of Hospitality Management

    The University of Central Florida in Orlando, Fla., recently completed a major renovation effort for the Rosen College of Hospitality Management, according to a news release. The project modernized 77,600 square feet worth of academic classrooms, teaching labs, and collaborative spaces to support both students and faculty.

  • CU-Lock Haven Receives $1.75M Gift for New Entrepreneurship, Media Center

    Commonwealth University-Lock Haven in Lock Haven, Penn., recently received a $1.75-million donation from entrepreneur and alumnus Nicholas Subich ’17, according to a university news release. The funds will go toward establishing the Nicholas Subich Center for Entrepreneurship and Media, a technology-driven hub for innovation and experiential learning.

  • Phoenix School District Breaks Ground on New Prep Academy

    The Creighton Elementary School District near Phoenix, Ariz., recently broke ground on a campus replacement for Biltmore Preparatory Academy, according to a news release. The new space will allow the school to expand its enrollment by 50 percent for K–8 students and accommodate modern, collaborative learning styles.