Can Architecture Bring an Infusion of Innovation to our Campuses?

In an article for The New York Times Education section this week, Alexandra Lange explored a number of new university projects meant to spur creativity through the design of the space. Lange states, “Where once the campus amenities arms race was waged over luxury dorms and recreation facilities, now colleges and universities are building deluxe structures from the generation of wonderful ideas.” Her article spans projects at Cornell University, University of Utah, Northwestern University and others. Some programs integrate living accommodations, others arts and STEM education and still others seek to emulate the grittier, unfinished feel of start-ups.

Designing spaces that allow for interdisciplinary study is becoming more urgent as Universities seek to prepare students for increasingly collaborative workplaces. We currently have three integrated and interdisciplinary science and engineering buildings under construction right here in Boston and these considerations have long been in play. Lange’s article highlights how crucial architecture can be in fostering serendipitous connections and collaborative creativity.

Read the full article.