California State University, Sacramento’s (Sac State) new 96,631-sf Ernest E. Tschannen Science Complex recently had its ceremonial topping out event. The five-story complex on the banks of the American River will feature an energy-efficient design and abundant natural light with laboratory space for the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics.
Dubbed the Ernest E. Tschannen Science Complex, the CO Architects-designed $91.5 million building’s façade is inspired by the rippling effect created when a stone is tossed into water. The planetarium and its 2,500-sf dome, located at the building’s inward inflection point, is meant to represent the stone’s impact, with the patterned window system radiating outward to emulate the ripples.
Courtesy CO Architects.
The complex’s instructional laboratories will have large expanses of glass adjacent to public corridors to display the work occurring within and connect students and faculty. The corridors branch out from naturally lit central lobbies on each floor. Students can use these central lobbies to collaborate and study. An observatory is accessible from the rooftop and will feature a retractable roof and two telescopes.
Courtesy CO Architects.
The landscape was also designed to be able to double as a teaching tool where biologists and botanists can experiment and teach outside of their labs. An outdoor plaza will offer additional space to gather, study, or rest. Additionally, a green roof will be accessible from a continuous ramp and stairs.
The Ernest E. Tschannen Science Complex is targeting LEED gold certification and is slated for completion in June 2019. The Build Team includes Sundt Construction, P2S Inc. (MEP), Buehler & Buehler Structural Engineers (SE), Cunningham Engineering (CE, landscape architecture).
Courtesy CO Architects.
Courtesy CO Architects.
Related Stories
University Buildings | Jul 14, 2020
Cornell College partners with Johnson Controls to improve campus energy efficiency
The plan will reduce the college’s energy usage by 20%.
University Buildings | Jun 3, 2020
Renovation can turn older university buildings into high-performing labs
David Miller of BSALifeStructures offers technical advice on renovation of college and university laboratories and scientific research facilities.
University Buildings | Jun 2, 2020
COVID-19 and teaching the next generation of nurses
COVID-19 hasn’t just upended healthcare delivery, the workplace, and all levels of education – the economic toll is still being realized – and capital projects on college and university campuses will inevitably be impacted as public and privately funded projects adjust to the budget crunch.
University Buildings | May 20, 2020
JCJ Architecture, Moody Nolan complete UCONN's Student Recreation Center
The project sits at the center of the Storrs campus.
University Buildings | May 19, 2020
Clemson's new Outdoor Education Center uses a Mass Timber Structural System
Cooper Carry designed the project.
University Buildings | Apr 29, 2020
Dixie State University's new Human Performance Center
Hastings+Chivetta designed the project.
Coronavirus | Apr 10, 2020
COVID-19: Converting existing hospitals, hotels, convention centers, and other alternate care sites for coronavirus patients
COVID-19: Converting existing unused or underused hospitals, hotels, convention centers, and other alternate care sites for coronavirus patients
University Buildings | Apr 9, 2020
Designing for the next generation of student life: Academically aligned
Since many academic departments have been concentrated in their own buildings or portions of campus, bringing these disciplines into a shared facility is fairly new territory.
Coronavirus | Mar 30, 2020
Learning from covid-19: Campuses are poised to help students be happier
Overcoming isolation isn’t just about the technological face to face, it is about finding meaningful connection and “togetherness”.
University Buildings | Mar 26, 2020
How to convert college dorms to support the coronavirus crisis
While student dormitories are well-suited to certain alternate healthcare uses — from housing clinical staff to treating low-acuity patients — there are important elements to consider when exploring how to convert them for coronavirus treatment.