July 2009
The project won an Award of Merit at the 2009 Excellence in Structural Engineering Awards presented by the Structural Engineers Association of Illinois (SEAOI)
The award program seeks to recognise projects that demonstrate creative achievement in structural engineering through innovative structural design.
Halcrow Yolles provided full structural engineering services for the landmark building, which is a 15,799 m², 12-storey facility that accommodates teaching laboratories, lecture theatres and research facilities.
The dramatic five-storey light-filled glass atrium features two silver coloured pods which contain lecture halls and assembly space. The pods are suspended in mid-air by steel rods using innovative engineering techniques and structural steel.