Challenge
The UC 1819 Innovation Hub needed to address a lack of collaborative work surfaces while supporting multiple user groups, including students, tenants, and partners, within a 107,000-square-foot space. The project also required transforming a traditional office-focused scope into a flexible environment that could serve as a recruitment and brand-building tool.
Vision
The vision was to create an innovation-driven destination that attracted and retained talent while reflecting the forward-thinking identity of the University of Cincinnati. The space needed to support open collaboration, shared conferencing, classrooms, and a makerspace—all functioning as a visible extension of the university’s brand.
Collaboration
LOTH was selected by A359 Architects following a competitive review process and worked closely with the design team to expand the project scope beyond enclosed offices. Through collaboration with Steelcase and project stakeholders, LOTH helped integrate open collaborative areas, shared meeting spaces, and flexible learning environments used daily by students and tenants.
Result
Completed in May 2018, the UC 1819 Innovation Hub now supports seven different tenants within a highly adaptable, collaborative workplace. The finished space successfully balances innovation, functionality, and brand expression—providing the university with a dynamic environment that encourages connection, creativity, and growth.
