The Health Science Facility supports the rapidly expanding community and program needs in the nursing and health sciences fields. The spaces and programs support academic study, technical investigation, and vocational preparation. Unique to this project is the emphasis on integrative space for informal learning and the use of green space to educate and enliven the building. Many of the building spaces emulate medical industry uses and blend with the numerous social and informal study areas provided to develop the teamwork and interpersonal skills that model the balance of the medical profession, holistic healing, wellness, and nurturing environments.
The building is arranged in two wings to organize technical/lab spaces and general-oriented instruction around a medicinal garden. The garden provides access to views, daylight, and outdoor space as a living reminder of the many plants, environmental, and holistic aspects of healthcare. The 56,000 SF building houses a Chemistry Lab, Anatomy & Physiology Lab, Computer Labs, Classrooms, and numerous collaboration spaces.
The project received LEED Gold Certification through many high-performing systems, salvaged materials, and a sustainability educational system based on the periodic table. Salvaged timbers from the old building were utilized to construct the grand stair in the main lobby. The architectural form explores the use of layering and medicine drawers as metaphorical types of the healthcare environment.
