University of Illinois at Chicago Opens Computer Design Research and Learning Center

The University of Illinois at Chicago opened the $118 million Computer Design Research and Learning Center in July 2025. Designed by LMN Architects and Booth Hansen as an expanded and consolidated home for the Department of Computer Science, the 135,000-sf facility will drive groundbreaking research and provide world-class training opportunities for graduates entering high-tech and engineering careers.

The first two floors support undergraduate students, offering 16,000 sf of classroom space, tutoring and open study venues, and a learning and community center. The upper three levels are dedicated to research, housing faculty offices, graduate student work areas, and 21 specialized labs arranged to foster collaboration and discovery. Organized around a daylit central atrium, the inviting structure also accommodates a 1,200-sf robotics lab, a dry lab, and a multipurpose event zone.

The LEED Gold-certified building incorporates energy-efficient glazing, with photovoltaic arrays integrated into the roof and terrace levels. A geothermal farm beneath Memorial Grove assists with sustainable heating and cooling. W.E. O’Neil Construction and Mortenson broke ground on the center in July of 2021. The project team also included Magnusson Klemencic Associates, Drucker Warner Associates, Affiliated Engineers (AEI), Terra Engineering, Site Design Group, and HLB Lighting Design.