The National University of Science and Technology (MISiS) is one of Russia’s leading universities. The new 100-hectare campus aims to be at the forefront of Russia’s transition into an innovative knowledge economy.
Accommodating 10,000 students, 3000 university staff, seven faculties, research departments and general facilities, MISis earns its status as a catalyst for Project A101, a new city borough planned along the ring road of Moscow.
The surrounding hilly landscape with its forests and lake triggered the design. A park is designated as the central meeting place on campus, and the natural beauty of the landscape is interwoven with the university grounds. The various faculty buildings are orientated towards the park to create an open atmosphere that facilitates the optimal crossover of ideas.
The car-free centre enables the campus to be compact, safe and pedestrian-friendly. With their recognisable identities, the Student Centre and Library overlooking the lake and university entrance are definite landmarks on campus.
The innovative character of MISis is echoed in the use of smart, sustainable applications such as climate walls, a geothermal heat pump, natural ventilation and rainwater harvesting. The 45-degree orientation of buildings avoids northern exposure and optimises daylight.
Prefabricated elements reduce construction time and energy, and the urban grid offers flexibility and space for phased construction. Additionally, the buildings can easily adapt to increases in student population and future developments in communications technology.