Bioengineering Building

Dan J on November 19, 2023

The Bioengineering Building is a future-oriented multi-disciplinary facility that serves the growing sphere of research at the intersection of engineering and the life sciences. Dry, computational laboratory space is balanced with traditional wet laboratories that areequipped with an extensive array of equipment and procedure support space. These functions are complemented by administrative suites for integrated research groups. Research teams are formed to benefit from a variety of science and engineering backgrounds. Teamwork in open laboratory environments and core support spaces is complemented by “studio” spaces  designed to foster computational and interactive modes of work.

Envisioned as a hub, or “collision-space,” for the scientific community at UCSB, the chosen site anchors the intersection of two primary campus circulation routes and is centrally placed within the science and engineering district. Initiated through an extensive programming phase, the design embraces its important site while providing three floors of interdisciplinary research labs. The project has been undertaken within an integrated design approach leading to LEED Platinum certification without incurring added cost. Extensive use of natural ventilation, daylighting strategies, and active chilled beam technologies, all support an ambitious goal towards environmental responsibility.

John Brooks Williams Natural Sciences Center II

Dan J on November 19, 2023

The John Brooks Williams Natural Sciences Center at St. Edward’s University is a multi-phase project that provides this smaller campus, with fewer than 5000 students, an outstanding science learning facility that would be the envy of many state universities. Phase II includes space for the University’s large computer science department, mathematics and physics, a  cutting-edge data hub,  and general assignment classrooms. The Department of Natural Sciences’ offices are set within a student-oriented environment with generous circulation and interaction spaces that foster close connections between staff, faculty and students. A three-level atrium stair and elevator serve open study spaces and link the cluster of faculty offices with a highly efficient loft for class-labs.

The new building  aligns with the campus master plan and is situated along a new major east-west drive, adding a shaded courtyard to the campus repertoire of human-scaled places. Prominently featured is a 125 seat, multi-functional lecture / performance hall developed to provide space for the Natural Sciences and the campus’ general population. Materiality was carefully studied. The traditional use of Texas limestone was re-interpreted with a bespoke system of textured pre-cast concrete panels, creating a low-maintenance envelope with rich color and pattern.

The design of this facility evolved through a close collaboration of campus, Moore Ruble Yudell, and executive architects STG Design, with cost management and design-assist by Square One project managers and contractor DPR’s construction team.  The close-knit teamwork facilitated design and delivery on a tight schedule, while realizing an aspirational program within fixed budget parameters.

John Brooks Williams Natural Sciences Center I

Dan J on November 19, 2023

St. Edward’s University, a highly respected private university of under 5000 students, sits on a high ridge south of the City of Austin, commanding panoramic views and elevating the campus’ oldest structure, Main Building, to landmark status.  The John Brooks Williams Natural Sciences Center, then the University’s largest project and with a prominent location, is scaled and crafted to expand the scope and spatial structure of the campus without dominating its environment.  Conceived as a two-phase development, the new Center comprises two L-shaped structures that embrace new courtyards. In Phase I, the building is clad in brick  reminiscent of the original campus limestone, with red metal roofs of various scales and orientations to articulate the project’s massing and establish a distinctive identity.

Phase I provides wet laboratory research and learning with a generous, naturally lit, interior street that connects the building with the rest of the campus.  Passing students as well as building users can view into state-of-the-art laboratories through large windows.   Two wings house programs related to Chemistry and Biology, with a two-level hub in between accommodating  faculty offices and student study space.  A rooftop greenhouse supports botanical studies. The building’s performance and sustainability are addressed with energy efficient air-handlers and VAV air-supply, an integrated building management system, high-efficiency glazing and lighting, and the use of local materials.

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