Learning Resources

Abstract: With campus space at a premium and industry investment on the rise, institutions are developing flexible research facilities beyond their core campus to accommodate evolving technology. The key to maximizing these spaces lies in integrated planning and design. This session is an exploration of the planning process behind Carnegie Mellon University's (CMU) new Robotics Innovation Center (CMU-RIC), an ambitious off-campus facility that includes aerial, aquatic, and outdoor robotics testing spaces. We'll investigate how a collaborative planning and design process aligned diverse stakeholder interests and identified core priorities in the development of a highly-adaptable research facility.

Abstract: This session will share the inclusive design behind the Agnes Reimagined project, a museum decolonization process with a focus on community engagement, decolonization, and sustainability. This project highlights a community-based design process that integrates Indigenous traditions, hospitality, and inclusivity. Through exploring our approach to inclusive design, engagement, decolonization, and sustainability, you will learn how to integrate indigenous perspectives and balance heritage preservation while creating a space of belonging that contributes to a healthy environment.

Abstract: The development of campus facilities, particularly research buildings, conflicts with the rise of decarbonization requirements to support a safe, healthy environment. We'll showcase a project that achieved balance by incorporating electric heating while enabling a campuswide transformation. Columbia University's sustainability plan aims for net-zero emissions and stands committed to responsible design and construction. The team behind the Vagelos Innovation Labs created a framework for the 2030 decarbonization plan, leading to New York City's first all-electric lab. Come learn how to navigate the visioning and execution of complex decarbonization projects, including the importance of an integrated approach from procurement through design.

Abstract: This session will share lessons learned from United Tribes Technical College's (UTTC) master plan that serves as a living document and adapts to changing needs. We'll explore how this culture-infused master plan applied an integrated approach to campus development over five years, addressing five primary needs with a focus on culture, regenerative design, and phasing to support strategic alignment. Join us to discover how you can implement campuswide resiliency strategies to safeguard the campus environment and gain insights into the phased implementation approach for ensuring the plan's success and sustainability over time.

Abstract: In 2020, California State Polytechnic University (Cal Poly), Humboldt’s transformation to the system’s third polytechnic required a new intersectional approach to campus physical planning that addresses a spectrum of needs for ambitious growth, future ready resilience, and student persistence. Rapid disruptions affected academic access, achievement, and workforce readiness of Generation Z. The polytechnic implementation inspired a planning process that prioritizes people first to address social, environmental, health, and economic challenges. This session will share lessons learned from the Cal Poly Humboldt physical planning process and provide tactical tools for effective stakeholder engagement, data collection, and establishing metrics of gauging success.

Abstract: FLEXSpace—The Flexible Learning Environments eXchange—and the Learning Space Rating System (LSRS) are tools that can help you plan, design, assess, and improve learning spaces on your campus. In this session, you will learn about the newly released FLEXspace 2.0 along with the LSRS. We'll cover the features and benefits of both tools and how they can be incorporated into the planning process. Come learn how to use these tools to inform designs and support end users from planning through post occupancy.