Iconic Florida Poly Building Featured On Smithsonian Channel

LAKELAND, FL — The jaw-dropping Innovation, Science, and Technology Building at Florida Polytechnic University was featured on the international TV show “How Did They Build That?” on the Smithsonian Channel.

The series investigates the world’s most innovative and greatest man-made structures, focusing on the work of the architects, engineers and builders behind the structures, as well as their use of new materials and construction techniques to achieve their cutting-edge designs.

“We are incredibly proud to see our campus centerpiece showcased on a global scale,” said Dr. Randy Avent, Florida Poly’s president. “The futuristic building is a visual representation of the innovative, future-forward STEM education taking place within.”

The award-winning Innovation, Science and Technology Building was designed by famed Spanish architect Dr. Santiago Calatrava. The 162,000-square-foot building is the heart of the Florida Poly campus and is a moveable, functional work of art.

The striking white edifice features a system of 94 louvered arms that move to provide passive lighting to the building’s second-floor atrium, and the building is ringed by curved metal pergolas that shade an outdoor terrace and walkways.

Florida Poly’s iconic Innovation, Science and Technology Building, 4700 Research Way, Lakeland, has won more than 20 global awards and was named one of the 16 most breathtaking buildings in the world.

To view season 2, episode 2 of “How Did They Build That?," click here.