Construction Imminent for New UIC Computer Science Center

Earlier this month, a ceremonial groundbreaking was held for a planned five-story educational building, located at 900 W Taylor Street at The University of Illinois Chicago‘s main campus. Officially known as the UIC Computer Design, Research and Learning Center, the project’s footprint will replace a former parking lot, while attaching to the existing Engineering Research Facility building. At 135,000 square feet, this new addition will provide students and faculty with 15 classrooms, 35 labs, and supplementary spaces such as student affairs offices and an undergraduate learning and community center.

Site of UIC Computer Design, Research and Learning Center. Photo by Jack Crawford

Site of UIC Computer Design, Research and Learning Center. Photo by Jack Crawford

UIC Computer Design, Research and Learning Center. Rendering by LMN Architects

UIC Computer Design, Research and Learning Center. Rendering by LMN Architects

Seattle-based LMN Architects is the design architect, while the Chicago-based firm Booth Hansen is the architect of record. The unique design involves a curvilinear exterior with precast concrete and terra cotta panels along its facade. Other notable features include a prominent terraced setback on the third floor and a full-height atrium at its center. The project also optimize its heating and cooling technology to achieve LEED Gold certification.

Site of UIC Computer Design, Research and Learning Center. Photo by Jack Crawford

UIC Computer Design, Research and Learning Center atrium. Rendering by LMN Architects

Located near the southern edge of UIC’s main undergraduate campus, the new addition will lie adjacent to the 900 W Taylor bus stops, with service for Route 157. Also nearby is Route 8 via a two-minute walk east to Halsted & Taylor, as well Route 12 via a four-minute walk south. Closest CTA L Blue Line trains, meanwhile, are available at the UIC-Halsted station via a nine-minute walk north.

UIC Computer Design, Research and Learning Center. Rendering by LMN Architects

Site of UIC Computer Design, Research and Learning Center. Photo by Jack Crawford

A target completion date has been set for summer 2023. While no permits listings or filings have been posted on the City’s website, an update from Building Up Chicago noted the project is part of the public school system under the authority of the State of Illinois. Moreover, permits will not show up through the City as construction initiates.

Subscribe to YIMBY’s daily e-mail

Follow YIMBYgram for real-time photo updates
Like YIMBY on Facebook
Follow YIMBY’s Twitter for the latest in YIMBYnews