Georgia Tech begins construction on “learning laboratory”

This is a rending of a building Georgia Tech is describing as a living, learning laboratory. It's scheduled to open in 2020. PHOTO CONTRIBUTED.

This is a rending of a building Georgia Tech is describing as a living, learning laboratory. It's scheduled to open in 2020. PHOTO CONTRIBUTED.

Georgia Tech officials held a ceremony Thursday to begin construction of a building they say will be innovative, even for them.

The structure is being described as a “living-learning laboratory for students and faculty.” The Kendeda Fund is investing $25 million to privately fund 100 percent of the design and construction costs of the project as well as an additional $5 million to support programming activities, Tech officials said.

The goals for the building, at Ferst Drive and State Street, include net zero water use and to receive a Living Building Challenge 3.1 certification.

The building is scheduled to open in 2020.