MICHIGAN
STATE UNIVERSITY IN DUBAI FACILITY COMPLETE AND OPEN FOR 2008-2009
ACADEMIC YEAR
SHW Group’s Detroit studio designed the MSU campus,
which is the first American Campus in the Dubai International
Academic City
DETROIT, September 15, 2008
– SHW Group has completed the design for the new 32,000-square-foot
education facility for Michigan State University (MSU) in Dubai,
making it the first American university to have a presence in the
Dubai International Academic City (DIAC). Classes have begun and
the 2008-2009 academic year is underway.
The DIAC, often called “the world’s only free zone
dedicated to international higher education,” was established in
2006 to address the enormous demands for higher education in a
nation noted for its growing positive regional and world influence.
Located about 20 minutes from the Dubai business district, the DIAC
spans 25 million square feet and is dedicated solely to universities
and colleges. Eight million square feet has been dedicated to the
international higher education zone, while three million square feet
will be allocated for research and development centers.
SHW Group’s project includes MSU’s Construction
Management, Family and Community Services, Communication Arts and
Computer Engineering programs. SHW designers took two floors of
shell space in a new building through programming, conceptual
design, schematic design and design development, which includes
mechanical, electrical and architectural development.
“The concept is predicated on the diverse cultures
coming together and interacting in an MSU environment,” said Jim
Chatas, AIA, Principal at SHW’s Detroit studio. “At the center of
the space is the “origin” – an interactive space where students from
the various programs can collaborate, share learning experiences and
develop relationships. With this interaction, a social energy is
created which ripples throughout the surrounding learning
environments, reinforcing the discovery of the students who will be
attending the four programs that the university has to offer.”
Through the use of materials and a dynamic “building
language,” the concept enhances the learning experience through
interaction and culture exchange. These ideals align with MSU’s
goals to increase student attraction and retention and going beyond
the basic needs and creating an enhanced educational experience for
all who attend the University.
About SHW
Group
SHW
Group is one of the world’s largest educational architecture and
design firms, as ranked in the BD World Architecture’s 2008 The
Big List. More than just an architecture firm, the company is
known for its comprehensive collaboration with educators, cognitive
researchers and strategic planners to design innovative facilities
that support the learning process. Founded in 1945, SHW Group has
grown to nearly 400 employees and seven studios nationwide. For more
information, please visit
www.shwgroup.com.
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