PSU Great Valley: Engineering Suite

Project Description

The New Engineering Suite is to provide lab and fabrication spaces for Junior and Senior level engineering students from the Brandywine and Abington campuses. Spillman Farmer assisted Penn State in preparing a program and developing square foot areas for the required spaces

Project Details

  • Client Pennsylvania State University
  • Location Malvern, PA View map
  • Sq. ft. 38,000
  • Completed 2014

The New Engineering Suite is to provide lab and fabrication spaces for Junior and Senior level engineering students from the Brandywine and Abington campuses. Spillman Farmer assisted Penn State in preparing a program and developing square foot areas for the required spaces, first through a detailed feasibility study, and later through the design and construction process.

The key elements created include a 3D model room, a Maker Space, and a workshop with state-of-the-art metal working…

The New Engineering Suite is to provide lab and fabrication spaces for Junior and Senior level engineering students from the Brandywine and Abington campuses. Spillman Farmer assisted Penn State in preparing a program and developing square foot areas for the required spaces, first through a detailed feasibility study, and later through the design and construction process.

The key elements created include a 3D model room, a Maker Space, and a workshop with state-of-the-art metal working equipment. To contribute to the innovative environment, the model room was conceived as a plywood box that appears to be fabricated by the equipment within. In the spaces, flexible and moveable furniture allows students to configure the space to meet the needs of their current projects.

The open, industrial aesthetic was chosen to reflect the new program’s philosophy of learning through creation and collaboration. Visitors to the campus can peer into the Engineering Suite from the lobby of the connected convention center and learn about the new programs on an interactive screen. To welcome engagement, a new and accessible student entrance was created at the rear of the building. The entrance is highlighted by a steel and wood canopy that reflects the materials and aesthetic of the interior learning spaces.