Iowa State University

Coover Hall of Engineering Addition

Ames, Iowa

Size
39,400 gsf new (Phase 1)
53,000 gsf renovation (Phase 2)

Services
Master Planning (Phases 1 and 2)
Programming (Phases 1 and 2)
Lab Planning (Phases 1 and 2)
Architecture (Full design, Phase 1; Concept Design, Phase 2)

Roles
Ellenzweig
Design Architect and Laboratory Planner

OPN
Architect of Record

The phased expansion and renovation of Coover Hall for the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECpE) began with comprehensive programming and master planning services. The planning team articulated the long-term vision of the ECpE into a detailed space program and alternative master-planning scenarios. Ellenzweig ultimately recommended a strategy that included a Phase 1 addition with 39,400 gsf of high quality interdisciplinary teaching and research laboratories, and a Phase 2 renovation of the existing building for general-purpose classrooms and offices for faculty and graduate students. The Coover Hall expansion strategy was successfully implemented with the subsequent design by Ellenzweig and construction of the addition.

The addition provides a new physical identity and contemporary research and teaching space for the University’s Electrical and Computer Engineering Department. The crisp, contemporary design gives material expression to the faculty’s quest for excellence, maximizes high-quality day-lighting in the laboratories, and sensitively integrates the addition with the existing building, which was constructed in 1952.

Program spaces in the addition include classrooms, teaching and research laboratories, meeting spaces, interaction and collaboration areas, and offices. Laboratory facilities include an interdisciplinary research suite where vibration-sensitive laser research is conducted. At the upper levels, the addition was designed for maximum flexibility, thermal control, and air quality by incorporating raised-floor technology for under-floor distribution of HVAC, network, and power.

This new building provides an outstanding learning, teaching, and research environment for our students, faculty, and staff.

Arun K. Somani, Ph.D.

Associate Dean for Research, College of Engineering Iowa State University