Iowa State University

Client Need:

This project involved the renovation of an existing lab in the west wing of the Food Sciences Building into a modern, food-grade teaching classroom. The department desired to have a flexible classroom & demonstration kitchen to use for training related to sensory analysis of food, food preparation and food quality assessment. 

Along with courses offered to ISU students, the department envisioned using the classroom for outreach workshops relating to enology, cheese, meats and produce targeting food industry and healthcare professionals. 

BBS Approach:

Our team worked with the department to develop a layout, which maximized countertop work surface and storage space, while integrating owner furnished appliances in an effective, compact arrangement. Mobile tables and chairs were selected in order to provide flexibility for the room’s intended uses. 

The MEP scope for the project extended beyond the classroom. As this space was on the second level of a 3-story building, plumbing was fed from the level below and HVAC extended from our space up through the level above to the roof.  Fire sprinklers were provided to feed not just the classroom but all of Level 2.  Our MEP engineers investigated all of these systems beyond the classroom boundaries to identify tie-ins and impacts on other areas. 

Solution:

The narrow proportions of the room presented a challenge for both auditory and visual accessibility within the room. To overcome this, BBS worked with ISU’s A/V consultant to integrate technology, which aids in the display of food preparation demonstrations in order to maximize student capacity within the classroom.