AIA Northern Virginia’s Committee on Architecture for Education recently had the unique opportunity to tour Virginia Tech’s Innovation Campus Academic Building One, a state-of-the-art computer science and computer engineering facility and a striking example of sustainable design and flexible learning spaces built for the future. Leading the tour was Sven Shockey, National Design Director at SmithGroup, who guided a group of 23 architects and designers through the building’s thoughtfully crafted spaces and energy-efficient strategies set within the developing urban landscape of Potomac Yards.

The tour kicked off outside the building where the group examined how the multi-faceted form of the envelope was shaped by intensive computer modeling, optimizing both solar exposure and energy performance. The bold design features vertical terra cotta fins and high-performance glazing integrated with photovoltaics to create a high-performing, visually compelling building envelope.

The site has been envisioned as a true campus environment with landscaped paths, social seating areas, and outdoor gathering spaces tailored to meet the needs of Northern Virginia students. The design specified the seamless integration of Virginia Tech’s iconic Hokie Stone into the base of the building and throughout the surrounding landscape to mark it as an authentic Virginia Tech campus.

The tour continued indoors where cutting-edge computational design methods came to life through the building’s interior architecture. Throughout the space, integrated graphics offered an inside look at the innovative design process and the sustainable strategies woven into the facility’s DNA. It was clear from the dedicated spaces for stretching, serene zones for mindfulness, and visual design elements—like vertical measurement markers—to encourage taking the stairs over elevators, that supporting student wellness was a priority.

Some of the tour’s standout features included:

• An immersive visualization lab that brings data and design into a new dimension
• A flexible lecture room with a retractable vertical partition for dynamic learning environments
• Abundant collaborative workspaces for students and researchers

The visit culminated on the rooftop terrace where participants were treated to panoramic views stretching toward Washington, D.C. and the Potomac River. Refreshments were then provided in the nearby “Treehouse” – a cozy gathering space which serves as an elevated hub for conversation and connection.

The Committee on Architecture for Education extends its sincere gratitude to Virginia Tech for hosting AIA NoVA members, Sven Shockey for his insightful tour and storytelling of the Virginia Tech ICAB, and to Armstrong World Industries for sponsoring this inspiring event.