Located in Big Rapids, Michigan, Ferris State University recognized a need to redefine their campus to accommodate a new type of learning: virtual.
The Center for Virtual Learning (CVL) provides a new 60,000 square-foot home for university-wide online, digital content creation and emerging programs. Bridging the gap between a rural campus and urban technology, the CVL provides unique facilities and adaptable learning environments to facilitate current and unforeseen advances in virtual learning approaches and content. This includes the emerging and growing programs in eSports production, cyber security, and electronic criminal justice applications.
The Stantec team was selected to design and engineer a space that reflects the future of FSU programs. A common theme in the design includes the use of a binary materials language creating a pixelated, digital look and feel harkening to the movement and manipulation of data. Primarily consisting of black and white fixtures, pops of color are artfully displayed through classroom carpet, signage, and lighting, representing moments of discovery that will be realized throughout the future of this new facility. The main atrium space is the heart of the building, offering a place for student gathering and spectator viewing for the eSports arena.
