The University of Illinois at Chicago selected RATIO to re-design the first level of the four story Library of Health Sciences building on its West Campus. Primarily used by graduate- and doctorate-level Medical, Nursing, Applied Health and School of Public Health students, the University hopes to create an open learning commons atmosphere on this floor with the advanced, more focused students in mind.
Most of the stacks that previously occupied the floor have been relocated to high-density shelving in the basement, leaving ample space to create a balance of daylit collaborative spaces and enclosed group study rooms, as well as classrooms, a visualization lab, staff spaces, and a unified help desk. The four floors of this 1974 building that were without fire protection will also be outfitted with a modern fire alarm and sprinkler system as part of this project.
