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In response to rapid growth in undergraduate science curriculums and learning environments, Murray State University retained Hastings & Chivetta Architects, in association with Research Facilities Design, to develop conceptual program and design documentation for their new state-of-the-art Science Complex.
The Chemistry Building is the second of the three-phased Science Complex project. During Phase II, completion of the 66,539 SF Biology Building and new construction of the connecting Tower and Chemistry Building take place.
Among the final renovations to the existing Biology Building in Phase II include the build-out of laboratories and offices on the second floor, which is pertinent to the design. These renovations require 25,130 SF of space.
The two-story Chemistry Building, which is approximately 52,010 SF per floor, houses two classrooms, an expansive lecture hall designed to accomodate 144 students, spacious lounge areas, 14 faculty offices, and 14 faculty research labs on the first floor. The second floor will consist of eight state-of-the-art teaching labs, four instrumental analysis labs, and a chemical stock room.
The connecting Tower between the Biology and Chemistry Buildings will be designed to include a landscaped outdoor plaza—an ideal gathering spot for students. In addition to the plaza, a semi-open ground-level colonnade will be covered by an enclosed second floor hallway connection between the two buildings.
The roomy 3,665 SF corridor will feature a vending area, comfortable lounge seating, and state-of-the-art conference room. The Tower will be topped by an open colonnade, which will employ a future bell system. Illuminated clocks and a lighted cupola will cap the Tower, acting as a campus beacon for the cutting-edge Science Complex.
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