# Maze-Like Academic Buildings Behnisch Architekten Overhauls This 70s Building, Adding an Extension By Kalin Ned | Published 2018-11-01 | Art & Design Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/70s-building References: [dezeen](https://www.dezeen.com/2018/11/01/portland-state-university-karl-miller-center-business-school-behnisch-architekten/) & [behnisch](https://behnisch.com/) This 70s building was designed by Yost Grube Hall in the later part of the decade and is currently occupied by the [Portland State University's](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/portland-house-renovation) School of Business. In 2018, German firm Behnisch Architekten embarks on a project to renovate the space and expand it with reference to modern sensibilities. As a result, the urban building will have the chance to better accommodate today's fast-paced academic environment. The 70s building has a maze-like interior that is well-connected, allowing for collaboration and dynamic learning. Originally a six-storey structure, Behnisch Architekten adds a [five-storey extension](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cannady-hall). The old and the new are connected via a [contemporary atrium](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/skylab). The adjoining piece is made from glass, allowing for the influx of ample amounts of natural light. Photo Credits: [Brad Feinknopf](https://www.feinknopf.com/) ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 3.1/10 - Popularity: 69% | Activity: 16% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Art & Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/artdesign) > [Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/design) ## Key Themes ### What's Driving This Trend - **Dynamic Learning Spaces:** The renovation and expansion project presents an opportunity for the incorporation of dynamic learning spaces that promote collaboration and fast-paced academic environments. - **Integration of Natural Light:** The addition of a glass atrium enables the integration of ample natural light, creating a more sustainable and visually appealing academic building. - **Modern Sensibilities in Architecture:** The renovation project highlights the trend towards incorporating modern sensibilities in architecture, balancing functionality and aesthetics in academic buildings. ### Who This Affects Most - **Higher Education:** The renovation and expansion project signifies an opportunity for the higher education industry to adopt innovative design concepts in academic buildings for enhanced student experiences. - **Architecture and Design:** The project showcases the potential for disruptive innovation in the architecture and design industry, encouraging the exploration of new approaches in transforming existing structures into dynamic learning environments. - **Sustainable Construction:** The integration of natural light in the renovated building exemplifies the potential for disruptive innovation in the sustainable construction industry, promoting energy efficiency and well-being in academic spaces. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Complex University Buildings](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/leed-v4-goldrated-schoenecker-center.md) - [Modernized University Buildings](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/leiden-university.md) - [Sustainable Educational Architecture Projects](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sustainable-educational-architecture.md) - [Transformed Architecture Schools](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/rice-university-1.md) - [Skylight-Centric Home Renovations](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/portland-house-renovation.md) - [Barn-Style Teaching Buildings](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/learning-house.md) - [Repurposed Imperfection-Embraced Buildings](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/civic-architects-and-vdndp.md) - [Education Architecture Expansions](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/rainbow-international-school.md) - [Brutalist Converted Learning Centers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/archipelago.md)