The vision for Columbus, Indiana’s architectural heritage began with J. Irwin Miller of Cummins Corporation and his collection of such notable buildings by t esteemed architects Eero and Eliel Saarinen, Harry Weese, Robert Venturi, and Deborah Berke.
Now that spirit continues with the latest addition to Columbus’ inventory of great architecture.
Designed by IwamotoScott Architecture and CSO Architects, Ivy Tech Columbus is building a new main campus building at the Columbus AirPark to serve students in Bartholomew, Decatur, Jackson and Jennings counties.
The $32 million, 80,000-square foot structure will replace the aging Poling Hall.
Five national firms that presented to the college at an architectural charrette. A grant from Cummins Foundation Architecture Program will pay the architectural design fee for Ivy Tech’s new building.
The building’s ground floor will welcome students into its double-height ground floor, visible from the outside through floor-to-ceiling windows. Double-height common spaces will allow natural light to flow inward.
A large unifying canopy will sculpt indoor-outdoor spaces and created shading.
“The team from IwamotoScott showed true vision for what the future of Ivy Tech in Columbus could look like,” said Ivy Tech Columbus Chancellor Steven Combs.
“Architecture is woven into the fabric of the Columbus community and is symptomatic of a larger vision — an aspiration to achieve excellence. This is echoed in IwamotoScott’s innovation and collaborative design process, making spaces that are functional, distinctive and beautiful,” said Mary Chandler, vice president of corporate responsibility for Cummins and foundation chief executive officer.
Noting that the vision for Columbus’ architectural heritage began with Miller, Ivy Tech officials said Miller understood that Cummins’ success in retaining the best and brightest employees was closely tied to the company’s ability to attract that talent to Columbus.
Tom Linebarger, Cummins chairman and CEO, said “every community Cummins is in should be benefiting because we’re there. Investing in communities is the right thing to do and the smart thing to do.”
“Their concepts of how to use available space for a modern and advanced campus were well received by our community and employees.”
Lisa Iwamoto and Craig Scott, founding partners of IwamotoScott, said they are extremely honored to design Ivy Tech’s new 21s-Century home.
“My hope is that the building will be the next iconic building in Columbus,” said Richard McCoy, Landmark Columbus executive director.
Architects: IwamotoScott Architecture
Architects of Record: CSO Architects
Client: Ivy Tech Community College
