The Collaborative Learning And Innovation Complex (CLIC), situated at 574 Boston Avenue, stands as a cornerstone of Tufts University’s Science and Technology Corridor. This state-of-the-art facility represents a forward-thinking approach to collaborative education and pioneering research, meticulously designed to adapt to the dynamic demands of its distinguished faculty and ambitious students. CLIC proudly houses the Department of Occupational Therapy and the Department of Physics and Astronomy, fostering interdisciplinary synergy within its walls.
Fostering Innovation and Interdisciplinary Collaboration
CLIC is purposefully engineered to ignite innovation and foster deep collaboration. It offers a spectrum of sophisticated and specialized shared environments where faculty and students can actively participate in dynamic research and immersive learning experiences. These spaces range from open, collaborative zones designed for spontaneous interaction to formal classrooms and active laboratories equipped for hands-on, project-based learning. Crucially, CLIC serves as a central nexus for faculty from diverse departments, including the Department of Mechanical Engineering’s Human Factors Engineering program and the Eliot-Pearson Department of Child Study and Human Development, enabling them to converge and conduct groundbreaking interdisciplinary research initiatives.
Building Community, Connections, and Enhancing Well-being
Transforming a former furniture factory into a vibrant multi-use building, CLIC goes beyond academic functions to cultivate a strong sense of community and well-being. It incorporates social infrastructure by hosting Semolina, a popular local restaurant, and providing numerous inviting gathering spaces. These intentionally designed areas encourage students, faculty, and staff to connect, socialize, and unwind, fostering a supportive and engaging campus environment.
Commitment to Sustainability and Green Design
CLIC exemplifies a strong commitment to environmental stewardship, evidenced by its LEED Silver certification for sustainable design. The complex integrates an advanced stormwater infiltration system, ingeniously designed to collect, treat, and recharge stormwater runoff from roofs, sidewalks, and parking areas. Complementing this system is a visually appealing rain garden, planted with native, drought-resistant vegetation. Further sustainable features include pervious pavers to reduce runoff, a drywell, and convenient covered bike parking on both sides of the building, alongside a shower facility to encourage bike commuting. The prominent central stairwell is not only an architectural feature but also promotes physical activity and facilitates chance encounters and collaboration. Moreover, the project’s decision to repurpose the existing building structure, rather than demolishing and rebuilding, significantly reduced embodied carbon emissions, underscoring Tufts’ dedication to sustainable practices.
Ensuring Accessibility for an Inclusive Environment
Accessibility is a core principle of CLIC’s design, ensuring an inclusive environment for all users. The sunken rain garden in the south plaza, located at the intersection of Boston and Harvard Avenues, features an accessible sloped walkway, seamlessly integrating accessibility into the landscape design. Two elevators provide access to all floors of the complex. Further inclusive amenities include a designated all-gender restroom and a lactation room, reflecting a commitment to meeting the diverse needs of the Tufts community.
In conclusion, the Collaborative Learning and Innovation Complex at Tufts University is more than just a building; it is a dynamic ecosystem designed to propel collaborative learning and innovation. By prioritizing interdisciplinary interaction, community building, sustainability, and accessibility, CLIC is strategically positioned to empower Tufts University’s faculty and students to shape the future of research and education.
