Montana State University Gianforte School of Computing

With the new mass timber Gianforte Hall, Montana State University leverages a $50M gift to the School of Computing into a generational investment in the state’s high-tech and timber industries. As an interdisciplinary hub for computer science as well as music technology, film, and photography, the new building will support a diverse and growing student cohort. When finished, Gianforte Hall will heighten MSU’s reputation as a national leader in computing while meeting the university’s ambitious carbon-reduction goals for long-term campus viability.

The 55,000-square-foot, three-story building features cross-laminated and glue-laminated wood, most of which was manufactured in the state and originates from sustainably managed Montana forests. Inherently warm and biophilic, the mass timber is used as both the structure and interior finish, reflecting MSU’s alpine setting and fostering a welcoming atmosphere. Components of the facade establish a rhythm that relates to the landscape as well as the visual connections of computer hardwiring familiar to computing students. Contrasting with wood is extensive glass transparency, which puts both Bozeman’s beauty and the school’s world-class tech learning and research on display — creating learning spaces that invite, restore, and spark exploration.

The mix of technology and artistic focuses are spread across generously daylit classrooms, research spaces, student labs, and studios. As users venture higher in the building, these spaces evolve from bustling and collaborative on level one to quiet and concentrated on level three. This experience is enhanced by the subtle use of colors in furniture and accent walls, which shift at each level from bright to cool and reflect the experience of gaining elevation on a mountain hike. Large classrooms spotlight non-traditional computing pioneers Grace Hopper, Kathrine Johnson, and Alan Turing by weaving their accomplishments into the environmental graphic design, encouraging students to dream big. The overall effect is a vibrant and inspiring learning environment that humanizes the world of computing.

On track for LEED Gold, Gianforte Hall is one of the first large-scale mass timber structures in Montana and the first to be owned by the State. While the building will attract students on a national level and boost the tech industry, Montana further benefits from the investment in timber manufacturing and construction that supports a triple bottom line of economy, nature, and community — proving that good design is good for business. Designed by Hennebery Eddy Architects in collaboration with Lake|Flato Architects, Gianforte Hall celebrates its grand opening in September 2026.