Buffalo State College Science and Mathematics Complex
Coming Soon:
The new Science and Mathematics Complex a 224,000-square-foot facility over three levelswill be home to the Chemistry, Biology, Earth Sciences and Science Education, Mathematics, and Physics departments, the Great Lakes Center, and a state-of-the-art planetarium.
Phase I of the project, scheduled for completion in summer 2012, includes a 96,000-square-foot addition along the west side of the existing Science Building that will house new teaching and research labs, faculty offices, and instrumentation rooms.
Phase II, to be completed in 2015, will include demolition of the Science Buildings south wing, a full renovation of the north wing, and construction of a second addition along the south side of the building, which will house a greenhouse for the Biology Department.
The new planetarium, designed to appear as a large, glowing sphere housed in a transparent framework, will define the complexs main entrance. A walkway from the Student Union Quad will lead directly to it. Inside the building, the walkway will lead visitors to an impressive three-story sky-lighted atrium that will be the main route through the complex. Upper-level balconies and bridges will open to the atrium, offering spaces for conversations and collaboration as well as quiet study. The design will create an environment that cultivates interdisciplinary research activities among both students and faculty.
The complex will be built to Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) standards and will incorporate many environmentally friendly features, including storm-water collection and treatment, use of recycled materials, water-conserving fixtures, and energy-efficient heating and cooling systems.
The project is expected to qualify for Gold Certification, which affirms the design and operation of the facility to be energy-efficient and environmentally responsible. The LEED rating system is a national benchmark for high-performance green buildings.
Info from Buffalo State College press release.
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