A Tour Through Gates Hall

Gates Hall, which will be the new home of Cornell Computing and Information Science, is nearing completion, and some lucky students and faculty have already moved in.  Today I got to tour the building with a resident computer science grad, Daniel.  It was such an inspiring and innovative space that I wanted to give you all a peek inside.

It's christened after Bill and Melinda Gates, who donated more than a third of the $60 million needed to complete the project.  

Enough facts, ready to head inside?

In contrast to the chilly grey day outside, the entrance lobby is warmly colored, spacious, flooded with light.  There are lobbies with cozy, modern chairs on pretty much every floor.  Some floors are open to the public, and others have restricted access.

I hear tell there might be a Gimme coffee cart appearing sometime soon in the building...but exactly where is still unknown.

Off of the main lobbies are dozens of office and conference spaces.  These spaces are separated from the hallway and each other by a mixture of colorful solid walls and glass walls.

In addition to letting in lots of light, these glass walls can also be drawn on, encouraging people to literally write their ideas all over the walls.

Apparently also some of the glass walls that go from floor to ceiling are deceptive - people don't realize they are there, and walk right in to them!

Finally, here's a shot from above looking down at the atrium - and at one of the most futuristic features of the building.  First of all, you can see that even the walls between the offices and the atrium are glass.  But see that Star Trek-like structure to the left?  That's an auditorium.  You can peek through the windows and actually see lectures in progress.

A very progressive space which I hope will inspire collaboration, learning, and great ideas - and hopefully you as well!