[4] The location selected for the building, a former parking lot,[1] would be part of the Eco-Commons, a larger public green space on the institute's campus.

"[4] Construction on the building started on November 2, 2017,[5] with designs by architectural firms Lord Aeck Sargent and Miller Hull.

[12] The Kendeda Building received the American Institute of Architects COTE Top Ten Award for 2021.

Each year, ten innovative projects earn the prize for setting the standard in design and sustainability.

To be selected, projects must meet the AIA Committee on the Environment (COTE) rigorous criteria for social, economic, and ecological value.