Eric J. Barron Innovation Hub | Pennsylvania State University

Photography © Halkin Mason Photography LLC 

The Eric J. Barron Innovation Hub not only symbolizes Penn State's dedication to innovation but also serves as a hub for creativity, collaboration, and entrepreneurial spirit within the university community and beyond. Keast & Hood provided structural engineering services for the demolition of an existing building and the construction of a new, six-story structure with a one-story below-grade parking garage for 30 cars and a green roof.

The top floor features a large, column-free multipurpose event space designed for flexibility and versatility. The remainder of the building is dedicated to open and private offices, co-working and collaboration areas, as well as makerspaces. Other distinctive architectural elements required precise structural design and detailing which included the interior monumental stair in the atrium’s two-story space, and the sculpted, cantilevered entryway canopy with specialty fabricated shapes.