One of a Kind

One of a Kind
A rendering of the planned multipurpose space in the Kaplan Institute

In this city of many architectural gems, the Ed Kaplan Family Institute for Innovation and Tech Entrepreneurship truly will be one of a kind—in both design and its ability to bring together programs and people at IIT.

Design architect John Ronan and his team have drawn plans for this new building, a 92,000-square-foot, three-level facility that respects IIT’s architectural heritage while allowing for spaces and concepts that will define the university’s future.

In what will be a first in Chicago, the exterior window system of the upper level of the Kaplan Institute will be made of ethylene tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE) film. This low-maintenance, highly durable, energy-efficient material is translucent, allowing natural light to enter the building and giving the building a glow at night. Solar energy entering the building can be controlled through sophisticated pneumatics. Some notable examples of the use of ETFE include the “Water Cube” swimming pool complex in Beijing, Allianz Arena in Munich, and the Eden Project in Cornwall, United Kingdom.

Exterior Rendering
Exterior Rendering
Entrance Rendering
Entrance Rendering
Flexspace Rendering
Flexspace Rendering
Night Rendering
Night Rendering

Plans for the Kaplan Institute include numerous outdoor elements woven into the interior, including two open courtyards and terraces. These spaces will become alternative study, classroom, and collaboration areas, giving the building a much larger impact. Flexibility will be key. Adaptable studio and classroom spaces will allow users to create a variety of learning environments on demand via deployable walls and furniture. These variable spaces, changeable classrooms, and technological advances allow for a constant evolution of the educational environment.

The Kaplan Institute will bring together much of IIT’s signature programming under one roof, including IIT Institute of Design, the Idea Shop™, the Interprofessional Projects (IPRO) Program, Jules F. Knapp Entrepreneurship Center, M. A. Self Leadership Academy, and the Entrepreneurship Academy. With every undergraduate attending at least two classes within it, the Kaplan Institute will become the focal point for innovation and entrepreneurship at IIT.

To learn more about the Kaplan Institute and how the campaign is transforming IIT. Be sure to check out the many innovative alumni, students, and faculty featured on the site.


Campaign Progress Through May 31, 2015

$208,141,728 Raised

  • 15 Endowed Chairs
  • Capital Projects:
    • Ed Kaplan Family Institute for Innovation and Tech Entrepreneurship: $32.6 million (includes$10 million challenge gift from the Kaplans)
    • Robert A. Pritzker Research Center: more than $6.5 million
    • John T. Rettaliata Engineering Center: more than $10.3 million
  • More than $33 million raised for scholarships
  • Six families have made gifts of $10 million or more

web.iit.edu/fuelinginnovation