MHA
works provided design services for the $9 million complete "gut" and recreation of the
building, transforming its space into a 21st Century teaching and research facility.
Originally completed in 1972, the three-story facility is now the home of the College of Health and
Human Performance. The building includes new research labs capable of sustaining bio-safety ratings
up to BSL3, several arrangements of teaching labs containing state-of-the-art low flow hoods and
customized storage systems, and three auditoriums, each capable of the best current technology,
acoustics and seating for distance learning functions.
With individual offices, work rooms, and conference rooms for the more-than-80-member department staff,
the new design encourages interaction between faculty and students. Graduate student areas are arranged
for collaborative research, as well as one-on-one consultation.
To further enhance the building’s "community" aspect, a satellite snack facility is located at the main
entrance and is visible on all sides through large windows. Numerous alcoves are conveniently located
along the path of travel, containing benches for informal conversation and services for laptop computer
use.
Expanded exterior windows are enhanced with ultra-clear, low-e glazing, and rooms are designed with
interior windows that share daylight, improve securing and enhance the new openness of the redesign.
