Designing for Scientific Research and Exploration
Designing for Scientific Research and Exploration
Design
Interior Design
Planning
Programming
ADA Accessibility Consulting
The renovation of the E/F wing provides contemporary academic and research spaces for collaborative learning and scientific exploration.
LCM’s renovation of Governors State University’s E/F Wing maximizes square footage, replaces MEP systems, and creates light-filled circulation areas. The facility houses two colleges focused on science, math, technology, and health and human services.
The original campus was effectively one building that followed an ‘open plan’ principle. It lacked walls to acoustically isolate disparate spaces, such as classrooms, laboratories, offices, and gathering areas. LCM’s initial programming and planning effort identified an efficient plan for housing departmental teaching and research functions. Responding to GSU’s desire to foster community, the plan also establishes gathering spaces in circulation areas for student/faculty interaction. Wayfinding and grouping faculty offices and support spaces solidifies departmental identity.
Construction, which was complicated by a post-tensioned building structure, was phased to minimize disruption. Phase one included building infill space for labs and supporting systems. Phase two renovated classrooms, computer labs, health and science spaces, faculty offices, and support areas.
LCM initially renovated GSU’s Nursing Teaching Laboratory, providing classroom and simulation hospital bed and exam rooms. We also designed a 4,500 sf research laboratory and public space, funded by a grant from the National Science Foundation.
