Science on Display

Leveraging the existing structure, the architectural approach combines landscape with the built form to produce a strong sense of place in relation to its surroundings. The façade follows the simple vertical rhythm of the neighboring buildings while displaying a digital expression of the butterfly wings-inspired surfaces. Compared with the terracotta-hued palate, these colors are muted to sit softly against the backdrop of the other two buildings which are both strong in their coloration.

The rigorous interior planning promotes collaboration through a number of active co-working zones. Aligning these areas on top of key infrastructure created two primary social hubs, encouraging interaction as well as vertical mobility—via a monolithic stair—across the floors. A central atrium connects the two wings, conjoining them as one site. At the ground level, student amenities and informal spaces engage the outside through the raised glass front. Picking up the external color scheme, a vertical gradient from yellow to deep red is expressed throughout the interior—most notably in the stair that flanks the atrium spaces, defining a visual identity for each level and assisting in wayfinding.

Internally, the concept of putting science on display guided much of the plan. Teaching areas on the busy lower levels feature floor-to-ceiling glass windows that promote visibility. Making the most of a narrow floorplate, flexible laboratory spaces on the upper levels are centralized and continue the motif of transparency by facing the central circulation space. Workplaces are arranged at the ends of these floors to best capture natural lighting and views.

Key social spaces on the ground floor are anchored by joinery display, tailored to specific seating and display arrangements. Mimicking cellular structures, the softly curved forms of the social hubs serve as wayfinding elements to inhibit movement through and around them. Floating timber seating pods serve to visually anchor the space, but also add warmth and a human-scaled space for students to comfortably gather.