MSU, Norm Asbjornson Hall
Redefining how
engineering is taught.
MSU, Norm Asbjornson Hall
ARCHITECTURE
Located in the heart of the Montana State University campus, Norm Asbjornson Hall is an innovative model for cross-disciplinary education, housing both the College of Technology and Honors College, and offering students a dynamic, physical space for free-flowing discourse and discovery.
A collaboration with ZGF, the design sets a new standard for how engineering should be taught, empowering students to explore and develop ideas into tangible outcomes utilizing cutting-edge laboratories with frontline technology and equipment. Multi-purpose spaces simultaneously allow for lecture, team-based learning, hands-on investigation, and formal presentation. The Hall delivers a powerful impact, strengthening the University’s mission to provide advanced engineering programs for the future leaders of technology and science-based industries.
MSU, Norm Asbjornson Hall
Redefining how
engineering is taught.
ARCHITECTURE
Located in the heart of the Montana State University campus, Norm Asbjornson Hall is an innovative model for cross-disciplinary education, housing both the College of Technology and Honors College, and offering students a dynamic, physical space for free-flowing discourse and discovery.
A collaboration with ZGF, the design sets a new standard for how engineering should be taught, empowering students to explore and develop ideas into tangible outcomes utilizing cutting-edge laboratories with frontline technology and equipment. Multi-purpose spaces simultaneously allow for lecture, team-based learning, hands-on investigation, and formal presentation. The Hall delivers a powerful impact, strengthening the University’s mission to provide advanced engineering programs for the future leaders of technology and science-based industries.
Breaking new ground
in green design
As the first LEED Platinum building on the Montana State University campus, and one of only 10 LEED Platinum buildings in the state of Montana, Norm Asbjornson Hall elevates energy-efficient design to a new level. Utilizing multiple solar walls and an underground geothermal system, the facility is predominately heated and cooled by natural sources. Special windows change tint to control glare and heat from the sun, while built-in data collection systems track building performance for optimum, long-term efficiency.
The spirit of "giving back"
The building’s namesake and MSU alumnus, Norm Asbjornson, contributed the largest private donation in state history to help fund the project. He encouraged the design team to push design boundaries and take creative risks, playing an influential role in the Hall’s innovative nature and overall vision.
Fueling the creative spark
All aspects of the building were thoughtfully designed to inspire. A central, white oak learning stair provides space for spontaneous group-think, etched with inspiring anecdotes and embellished with a large, backlit glass graphic of Norm Asbjornson and his motivating life philosophy. Innovative mechanical equipment is showcased through glass panels with descriptive graphics to display top-tier engineering techniques, while floor-to-ceiling windows provide an enlightening, natural backdrop for students presenting in the “Inspiration Hall.”