Gray AES Celebrates the Opening of the Gray Design Building at the University of Kentucky

Our CEO, Dowell Hoskins, had the privilege of cutting the ribbon at the dedication ceremony for this state-of-the-art facility, which now serves as the home of the University of Kentucky College of Design (CoD). This transformative project represents a significant collaboration between Gray AES, the Gray family, and the UK to inspire and empower the next generation of design and architecture leaders.

The 132,000 s.f. repurposed facility, designed by Studio Gang, epitomizes “adaptive reuse”—creatively transforming a former tobacco warehouse into a vibrant hub for learning and collaboration. The Gray Design Building features open studio spaces, collaboration areas, student workstations, and cutting-edge technology, including fabrication spaces, a woodshop, 3D printers, and a 3D knitting machine.

This new home for the CoD also supports a groundbreaking design-build curriculum, a collaboration between the College of Design, the College of Engineering, and the Gatton School of Business and Economics. By combining design, engineering, and business expertise, this program equips students with the skills needed to lead in architecture, construction, and beyond.

“This building represents more than just a stunning example of adaptive re-use. It’s a symbol of opportunity, growth, and the limitless potential that exists within every student who will walk through these doors,” said Dowell Hoskins, CEO, Gray AES. 

Gray AES is proud to contribute to a project that aligns so closely with our values of collaboration, creativity, and community impact. We extend our deepest gratitude to the University of Kentucky, Studio Gang, and everyone who helped bring the Gray Design Building to life. Together, we are redefining the future of education and design.

Learn more about the Gray Design Building and its impact on the University of Kentucky here.