A hub for innovation and design excellence

By Jesse Sanchez.

A groundbreaking facility merges cutting-edge research with bold architectural design.

Wichita State University’s Innovation Campus continues to cement its reputation as a hub for research, development and collaboration with the latest addition, Partnership Building 3, showcasing the synergy between functionality and aesthetic sophistication. Housing industry leaders like Airbus and NetApp and featuring materials from Sherwin-Williams, this state-of-the-art facility isn’t just a center for innovation — it’s an architectural statement that redefines modern academic and corporate spaces.

At the heart of its design is a creative use of metal wall panels, chosen to align with the campus’s architectural theme. GLMV Architecture spearheaded the project, leveraging products from the Petersen PAC-CLAD line to craft a structure that stands out while blending seamlessly into its surroundings.

The building was designed to meet the dual demands of technical versatility and visual appeal, with metal panels chosen for their flexibility in achieving this vision.

The design integrates over 12,000 square feet of panels finished in Silver Fluropon® from Sherwin-Williams Coil Coatings, a choice that exudes modern elegance. To complement the structure’s sleek aesthetic, 8,500 square feet of Matte Black Fluropon® flat sheets frame the window areas, adding depth and contrast. The strategic use of three distinct panel profiles provides a cohesive yet dynamic visual effect, a hallmark of GLMV Architecture’s forward-thinking approach.

Metal wall panels were not just a practical choice but also a nod to the broader architectural identity of Wichita State’s Innovation Campus. Their inclusion allows Partnership Building 3 to echo the design language of nearby structures while maintaining its own unique character.

This fusion of form and function demonstrates why the facility has quickly become a magnet for cutting-edge research and development. As Wichita State continues to attract top-tier talent and organizations, Partnership Building 3 stands as a testament to how thoughtful design can amplify innovation.

Learn more about this architectural marvel and its impact on the university’s growing ecosystem!