TCU is growing its academic research. And so is Harris College through the opening of its new research facility, the Harris Research Annex.
“The Harris Research Annex is helping grow the university’s research footprint, providing essential laboratory and learning spaces for both the Department of Kinesiology and Harris College’s new Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) program, allowing them to continue expanding and developing,” said Chris Watts, the Marilyn & Morgan Davies Dean of Harris College.
Cutting-Edge Design
The conceptual design of the new annex was shaped by the needs of the campus, particularly in terms of academic and student services.
“One of the biggest influences was the ability to provide flexibility in the space and provide for the future needs of the departments and the university through open concepts that allow for varied uses in the spaces created,” said project manager Zachary Miller, MBA, CHC.
The Annex is broken up into two main spaces. The kinesiology space will house the Locomotor Performance Lab complete with cutting-edge technology for the research and study of movement, making it a premier facility for evaluating running and jumping mechanics for everyone from weekend warriors to high-end athletes.
“The Locomotor Performance Laboratory will be equipped with high-speed instrumented treadmills, a motion capture system with 14 high-speed cameras and a novel configuration of seven in-ground force platforms for capturing a variety of running, jumping and other maneuvers,” said Peter Weyand, Ph.D., chair of the kinesiology department and lab director.
The OT Applied Functionality Laboratory provides multiple flexible spaces while having the ability to convert to a singular lecture space if needed.
“The clinical skills lab will support the hands-on experience of students as their dedicated space to practice competencies and training as they prepare to enter the profession of occupational therapy,” said Michael Justiss, Ph.D., OTR, FAOTA, founding director of the OTD program.
Sustainable Structure
By utilizing the former Blockbuster Video building less than a quarter mile from TCU’s main campus, the research annex is incorporating sustainable, innovative building practices that are in line with the university’s goals for environmental stewardship.
“Repurposing existing buildings gives them new life and purpose,” says Miller.
He explains every construction project at TCU always starts with proper planning and a comprehensive and collaborative design that will ensure the best use of space and resources.
“Successful construction is just the final step in the process,” says Miller. “It’s only successful because of the great work and collaboration between architects, university stakeholders and community members.”
Foundation for Innovation
Through proper planning and budgeting before construction ever started, TCU’s Facilities Planning Design and Construction team stayed on track. They began working on this project with initial plans in early 2023 and site construction starting in May. Collaborating with the university and Harris College administrations and understanding their needs and goals long before any construction started, they ensured the project would be successful.
“My hope is the facility has a positive impact on the learning environment for our students and faculty and aids in TCU continuing to build their research footprint,” remarks Miller. “We can’t wait for everyone to make use of the space and see the wonderful things that are to come out of the Harris College Research Annex and its programs.”