Timothy J. Nelson Innovation Center wins architectural award

TRAVERSE CITY — Northwestern Michigan College’s Timothy J. Nelson Innovation Center has won a statewide Michigan American Institute of Architects (AIA) 2021 Honor Award for Design Excellence.

Designed by Cornerstone Architects of Traverse City, the project combined state investments of more than $7 million for renovations and modernizations of the West Hall building with NMC-funded investments of more than $7 million to create a 54,000-square-foot, multi-story library and flexible learning space. The building will mark its 60th year in service on NMC’s main campus in 2023.

The award jury commented: "The volume of this enlarged and renovated building is well-balanced inside and out, through a skillful integration of materials and massing. The interior is warm and filled with natural light, while the flowing plan successfully reflects its flexible function. Finally, the jury greatly appreciated the design team's goals of equity and minimal environmental impact."

West Hall originally opened in 1963. Groundbreaking for the new building was in September 2018. The NMC Library was the first department to occupy the renovated facility, moving into its second-floor space June 9, 2020. A formal opening ceremony was held in September 2020.

Cornerstone was also the architect for NMC’s Great Lakes Campus, the Health & Science Building, and the North Hall student housing development.

 

Release date: June 28, 2021

For more information:

Troy Kierczynski
Interim Vice President of Finance and Administration
(231) 995-1147
tkierczynski@nmc.edu