Registration is now open for

February's Chapter Dinner:

RIT's MAGIC Center

presented by:

Mark A. Maddalina, AIA, LEED AP BD+C,

Matthew Weber, PE, LEED AP, BD+C

and Ryan Zegarelli, AIA with SWBR Architects

Event Summary

Last fall, RIT launched the building that will house MAGIC Spell Studios.  The program, a first of its kind effort in higher education, will link RIT's internationally ranked academic programs with high-tech facilities needed to commercialize computer gaming, film and animation, and digital media projects. To see the studio's trailer, click here

RIT's new MAGIC Center will feature a 7,000SF film soundstate with an adjacent professional sound mixing room, color correction room, and a 180-seat theater.  Several Computer Game Development Laboratories, two Animation Classrooms and related studios support both education and the creation of commercial projects.  The new Center will focus on supporting students, faculty and staff in turning ideas into marketable products.  The Center is comprised of two parts:  MAGIC Spell Studios and MAGIC - the Center for Media, Arts, Games, Interaction and Creativity.  Located in Student Innovation Hall, a SWBR designed building, has been created to help RIT innovators hone in on the burgeoning field of digital media - including games, apps and software - which, according to researchers, is changing the way we communicate, learn and think.

This presentation will provide a preview of the design of the new facility and its structural design, with a focus on the application of insulated structural precast panels.

About our Speakers:

Mark Maddalina is SWBR's Director of Sustainable Design.  He is a critical thinker and approached a project as a team member, works closely with the client, consultants and stakeholders as a resource, and coordinates the team around project goals to achieve shared successes.  His project focus has been on sustainable buildings, primarily for college and university clients.  Mark has written the firm's Sustainable Guidelines, and educates project teams, and coordinates the firm's internal sustainability efforts.

Matthew Weber is a Structural Engineer with SWBR Architects.  He is responsible for the design of structural systems, integration and coordination with Architects and consultants, and also oversees structural drawing production and detailing, shop drawing review, and coordination for industrial, academic, commercial, medical and residential buildings.

Ryan Zegarelli is a Project Architect with SWBR Architects.  He has specialized in design for College and University projects for clients such as RIT, Roberts Wesleyan College and Nazareth College for four years.  Additionally, Ryan is part of the team that leads the Revit/BIM effort at SWBR.

*This presentation qualifies for AIA Learning Unit Credits

Wednesday, February 8th, 2017

4:30 PM - Board Meeting

5:30 PM - Cocktails

6:00 PM - Dinner

Presentation to follow

Business casual attire requested.  Please, no blue jeans.

Please contact Paige at pholenbeck@casreps.com with any questions.