During the fourth day of Baltimore Innovation Week 2019, collaborative design firm Gensler brought together a designer and several creative media clients to discuss how physical space can help boost innovation.

FastForward U, an innovation hub at Remington, had their space built by Gensler with the intention of making students feel like they had a place to call their own.

The space features a large coworking space that can be transformed to host team meetings, seminars or demonstrations, as well as a maker space riddled with 3D printers, laser cutters, woodworking/metalworking benches and more. It also provides natural light and easy access to bathrooms for students.

Kevin Carter, student program manager of FastForward U, said the former hub used to be in a doctor’s office in a neglected corner of campus.

“We weren’t taking anyone on tour of this space,” said Carter. “We were kind of ashamed of it. Now, every time there’s a pre-orientation or high school seniors are visiting, we’re a must-stop attraction. The space with the programming can be competitive with any university entrepreneurship program in the country. We’re just getting started.”