Purdue University Wilmeth Active Learning Center

Inclusivity in Action at the Wilmeth Center

The Wilmeth Active Learning Center is an academic facility located in the heart of campus, with three stories above grade and a basement.

To make way for the facility, an existing power plant was demolished. To preserve the history of the location, relics from the power plant were salvaged for use in the new building.

The facility encourages the best of new classroom teaching and learning methods, creating a blend of centrally scheduled multi-functional classrooms, library and information services, formal and informal study spaces, collaborative work areas as well as exhibition spaces.

One of the unique characteristics of this facility includes the installation of hearing loops, a unique sound system for use by people with hearing aids or cochlear implants. The hearing loop is installed directly below the concrete surface and provides a magnetic, wireless signal that is picked up by the hearing aid.

As the project neared completion, Turner was selected to manage the development of the Centennial Mall. This open space network at the center of campus provides multipurpose gathering spaces and connective green infrastructure linking the historic academic core to the Wilmeth Active Learning Center. The scope of work including repairing and replacing over 1,000 linear feet of deteriorated utility tunnel infrastructure, originally constructed circa 1920.