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Edward St. John Learning and Teaching Center
University of Maryland
A learning and teaching center reimagines the classroom to support active learning.
Location
College Park, MD
Size
187,000 GSF
Sustainability
LEED Gold
Services
Completion
2017
Located at the heart of University of Maryland’s College Park campus, the Edward St. John Learning and Teaching Center establishes a new paradigm for collegiate teaching and learning facilities. The building serves more than 10,000 active learners in a wide range of disciplines from chemistry to philosophy, reinventing the traditional classroom to embody a new problem-based undergraduate curriculum. The center features collaborative flat and tiered technology-infused classrooms in a variety of applications, ranging in size from six to 320 seats. Informal learning spaces include gathering areas, study space, team rooms, break out space, conference and training rooms, and four cafes, as well as faculty office space. The project includes the renovation and restoration of Holzapfel Hall, which is now home to the Academy for Innovation and Entrepreneurship.
The center is located on the former site of Shriver Hall, between Holzapfel Hall, Symons Hall, and Campus Drive. This major redevelopment of a prominent site on campus maintains legacy views while providing a new, functional and sustainable LEED Gold facility.
The building is designed to encourage learning outside of the classroom in huddle rooms and light-filled collaborative spaces.
Informal gathering spaces encourage collaboration.
From programming through post-occupancy, the team conducted extensive classroom design research and space planning to develop the ideal learning environment to support each of the disciplines taught in the building. The design process began with three questions: What skills will students need when they graduate? What experiences will students need to learn these skills? What learning spaces will accommodate these experiences?
Flat-floor flexible classroom
Diverse learning environments are found throughout the building and incorporate flexible furniture solutions that prioritize face to face interaction.
Flexible maker space/classroom in the Academy for Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Wood texture used on the interior of the building envelopes formal learning classrooms.
The skylight lightly bridges old and new
Sustainable Design
The project incorporates many sustainable strategies including two green roofs. It reduces energy costs by 27% compared to the baseline building and showcases multiple energy-efficient strategies.
Environmental Graphics
The environmental graphics honor the building’s donor at the main entrance and create an integrated experience, clarifying programming in order to engage users. A vibrant color palette that eschews primary colors highlights the building’s modern aesthetics and its mission of preparing students for entrepreneurial careers.
Awards
2019
USGBC Maryland Leadership Award for Green Schools – Higher Education
2017
Associated Builders and Contractors Award of Excellence
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