Architecturally, the Science Center blends traditional and modern
design elements. Much of the façade of the original 1925 Science
Building was preserved and can be seen flanking the expansive atrium
and behind the glass along its back wall. The Dana Wing, built in 1965,
was replaced with a new stone section that connects the renovated
original building to a new addition that stretches north toward Campus
Road. A more modern zinc-coated copper surface was chosen for the
addition that features floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook the
ravine and provide a clear view of the Mohawk Valley.
Some 622 tons of Pennsylvania sandstone were used to complement the
original Science Building since Herkimer dolomite, used in many of the
older stone buildings on the north campus, is no longer available in
large quantities.
Like stone, slate used on the roof is a natural product with high
longevity. The light-colored roof surface reflects heat gain.
The large windows, sky roofing and other strategically placed glass maximize day lighting.
Interior design
Teaching labs located on one side of the hallway, with research labs
on the other. This "community" organization allows for efficient access
to lab and support areas.
Support and equipment rooms positioned in the center of the building,
making labs quieter while maintaining accessibility from teaching and
research labs. This also allows for more efficient air handling.
Ample windows that create an "open approach," making science
activities visible from hallways. Those passing by the electron
microscopy suite, for example, can watch a monitor that displays
real-time research happening in the lab.
Wireless computer capability -- plus more than 1,300 wired network jacks -- throughout the building.
Suspended "atriette" stairways that provide vertical connections
between disciplines. The open design of the north and south end
stairways creates an integrated feel that strengthens interdisciplinary
work within the sciences.
Study and common rooms, hallway seating areas, the atrium and a café
which give students space to work independently, collaborate and relax.
Going 'Green'
With its geothermal loop system, the atrium is a showcase for
sustainable construction design. During the winter months, the earth is
used as a heat source. Cold liquid is piped below ground extracting
heat from the earth. The warm liquid is then piped to the surface where
the geothermal heat pump transfers the heat from the liquid to the air
circulating in the atrium. The cooled liquid is then returned to the
earth to collect more heat. In the summer, the geothermal system
reverses, using the earth as a heat sink.
In addition, a displacement ventilation system allows supply air to
enter the atrium at floor level at a temperature slightly lower than
the desired room temperature. The cooler supply air displaces the
warmer room air creating the desired temperature.
The atrium's roof overhang helps control the solar heat gain in
response to seasonal changes of the sun -- in winter when the angle of
the sun is low, it allows direct solar radiation; in summer, most is
blocked. The greenhouse effect is also incorporated as radiation passes
through the glass and heats the inside. Reradiated energy cannot exit
through the glass, trapping it inside. The atrium's double-glass façade
allows convection currents to help insulate the space from outside
temperatures.
Throughout the building, heat recovery systems allow air from
laboratory fume hoods to be ejected from the building. As warm air
passes through heat recovery units, it transfers thermal energy to
fluid located inside coils. The warm fluid travels to another set of
coils where fresh cool air enters the building. When the cool outside
air enters the coil, it is warmed.
All casework, laboratory furniture and millwork is made of wood
harvested from certified forests in accordance with principles of the
Forest Stewardship Council, a non-profit organization that encourages
responsible management of the world's forests.
Occupancy sensors in laboratories reduce lighting and air flow
demands. When wet labs are unoccupied, the number of air exchanges is
reduced to 40 percent of normal level.
Recycled materials can be found throughout from recessed entry mats
made from recycled tires, to steel and sheet metal with 85-90 percent
recycled content, to chairs made from discarded seatbelts.
Architecturally, the Science Center blends traditional and modern
design elements. Much of the façade of the original 1925 Science
Building was preserved and can be seen flanking the expansive atrium
and behind the glass along its back wall. The Dana Wing, built in 1965,
was replaced with a new stone section that connects the renovated
original building to a new addition that stretches north toward Campus
Road. A more modern zinc-coated copper surface was chosen for the
addition that features floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook the
ravine and provide a clear view of the Mohawk Valley.
