The owner required a collaborative, design-build approach to refining design and construction solutions for the addition to and renovation of the 45-year-old science complex at UMSL. The transformation of undergraduate science facilities includes renewed public spaces for collaborative learning and major building systems upgrades. The new academic space provides state-of-the-art science and computer labs that preserve flexibility and adaptability for change in the future. Our collaboration with contractor, S.M. Wilson, brought design innovations that will increase building performance while adhering to a tight budget.
Size: 76,000 sf
Status: Design completed 2009
Design-Build Lead: S.M. Wilson
We designed the exterior of the addition to harmonize with existing campus architecture. It utilizes the established University palette of brick and stone, and creates its own identity with glass and aluminum elements.
Our design team developed a new structural and bracing system to create a new “town center” in the midst of the complex. It provides a variety of student spaces with separate noisy and quiet areas.
We incorporated a “solarium” to provide a dynamic link between the existing facility and addition. It creates a centralized, interactive space for students and staff with plenty of daylight.
