To address STEM program growth, the University of Northwestern (UNW) and BWBR created multiple master planning scenarios, looking at several satellite locations on and near the main UNW campus. Based on these studies, UNW selected a space in a nearby retail district that offers strategic expansion options for adjacent spaces over time.

The implementation of Phase 1 transformed an underutilized retail space, while bringing the STEM program physically closer to the UNW nursing program, which is located in the same retail district. The creative use of space is cost effective, highly impactful, and located along an existing UNW transportation network.

Flexibility and innovation drove the design. The adaptive reuse of retail space allowed for high bay clearances and overhead rolling doors that create connections between rooms and encourage inter-departmental interactions. Abundant glass and windows, combined with integrated UNW branding, showcase the engineering department for visual recognition in the department’s new non-traditional setting.