Iowa State University Student Innovation Center

The Student Innovation Center’s “maker space” serves the University’s more than 30,000 students. Its immediate popularity, attracting students from across campus, supports and symbolizes a shift in teaching theory away from passive learning toward hands-on, interactive instruction, and recognizes the central role “making” has in innovation across disciplines.

Developing a Cutting-Edge Facade

Just as the SICTR aims to inspire innovation through experimentation and collaboration, the design and installation of the building’s unique, custom wedge-shaped glass façade required a spirit of innovation. The unitized façade was fabricated off-site with each “pleat” comprised of two-4’ wide glass panels. These accordion from flat to angled across the face of the building. The south-facing panels are insulated to reduce heat gain while still allowing natural light into the space. This design was the result of exploration, excellence in engineering, and trial and error—not to mention extensive testing. The SICTR's pleated glass facade is more than an architectural feature—it embodies the University's dedication to innovation and sustainability.

“I love being at the Student Innovation Center because the architecture provides a beautiful open concept with natural lighting and tons of places to study. The student-centered spaces always feel inviting and inspire me to continue learning on campus.”

Jack Harris, Senior in Environmental Science

Interdisciplinary Collaboration and Creativity

To further define the University’s vision for this student-focused building, ISU assembled a steering committee comprised of representatives from each of the six undergraduate colleges and the student body, tasked with establishing the program for this building. The design team led this group through a series of data-driven exercises to identify desired spaces and uses and how the building should “feel”. This group also developed a common set of goals and values at the outset which guided the project throughout design and construction. The steering committee’s vision for the building was a “patchwork quilt”—a diverse mix of spaces and functions found nowhere else on campus, intentionally arranged to foster learning, exploration, collaboration, and “creative collisions”.

"The Student Innovation Center establishes Iowa State University as the destination campus for innovation and entrepreneurship. Here, students, faculty, and staff can create innovative products and collaborate with others to bring new ideas to the marketplace. I see the Student Innovation Center as a bright beacon for all of those innovators and entrepreneurs captivated by creativity and yearning to bring their new ideas to life. This center will serve as the home base for every student who wants to experience our brand, Innovate at Iowa State.”

Dr. Wendy Wintersteen, Iowa State University President