Kettering’s $63 million learning facility to be the most technologically advanced in Michigan

FLINT, Michigan—Kettering University broke ground early this morning on their campus for a 105,000 square foot Learning Common. The $63 million facility is slated to be finished in early 2022 and will be one of the most technologically advanced in Michigan.

 

The Learning Commons will be home to a digital library, dining area, and media resource centers. In combination with a design and entrepreneur lab, the space will feature student worker spaces with an emphasis on mobility and artificial intelligence.

 

“Virtually every space will be a writing surface, allowing ideas to flow freely, and inviting ad hoc study groups to form easily and seamlessly,” according to the Kettering University website. “The building itself will reflect its open and collaborative purpose, with limitless views, adaptable spaces and a 300-seat auditorium for more formal presentations and community events.”

 

The two-year project, which will be overseen by Clark Construction of Lansing as well as multiple Flint-based contractors, will serve as a part of Kettering’s Boldly Move Forward strategic initiative campaign.

 

The building itself, which was designed by the Stantec architecture firm, will feature a multitude of unique features and design choices. A gallery connector will open up to four full stories through an open-air atrium. It will be topped by a skylight that will provide the entirety of the building with plenty of natural light.

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Read more articles by Santiago Ochoa.

Santiago Ochoa is a freelance reporter and communications student at UM-Flint. He is the project editor for On The Ground community reporting series and currently serves as The Michigan Times' Editor-in-Chief. Santiago has worked with publications and organizations like The New York Times, the Interamerican Press Association and Flint Beat. You can reach him @santi8a98 on Twitter and Instagram and email him at [email protected]