New ISU Multipurpose Complex Makes Life Easier for Students

POCATELLO, Idaho — Officials at Idaho State University cut the ribbon at the beginning of the school year on a new $43 million multipurpose building that will serve as a residence hall and classroom for students.

Located within walking distance of the school cafeteria and gymnasium, the 255,000-square-foot Rendezvous Complex is designed to be the hub of the university and will combine many services under one roof for students, including housing, teaching, retail, administrative functions and information technology.

It features 50 multipurpose classrooms, a 120-station computer laboratory, and 80 three- and four-bedroom apartment suites for 301 students.

A five-story atrium provides space for events and serves as the building’s centerpiece, with windows spanning the entire east side and half of the west side to provide plenty of sunlight. Other amenities include a convenience store, a spirit shop with university apparel and an art gallery.

Classes from all disciplines will be taught in the complex’s three-story classroom wing. Each room features a computerized smart podium, which displays information on drop-down projection screens. Two classrooms are equipped with a computer at every desk.

A 250-seat, multi-story room with a domed planetarium will serve as a lecture hall. The university plans to use the hall only for lectures until funds can be raised for a planetary projection system, which is expected to cost about $2 million.

Faculty senate offices and a teaching and learning center will also be housed in the new building, along with a three-room suite for conferences.

Student apartment suites include individual bedrooms and kitchenette and bathroom facilities. Each room features a washer, dryer and refrigerator.

While the majority of construction is complete on the new complex, there is still work being done on the classroom portion of the building. The wing is about half complete, and officials plan to move the teaching and learning center to the top floor during the first part of the school year.