Science Building Addition and Renovation

A state-of-the-art scientific research and education facility that optimizes efficiencies and resources shared amongst three distinct institutions co-located on the Auraria campus.

Size
181,000 SF Addition | 143,000 SF Renovation

Year
2009 | 2011

Location
Denver, CO

LEED
Gold

Awards
2012 Citation Award, American Institute of Architects, Colorado Chapter

2010 Downtown Denver Award, Downtown Denver Partnership

Client
Auraria Higher Education Center

The Science Building Addition and Renovation is comprised of state-of-the-art teaching, research, and support spaces that facilitate the work of various scientific disciplines. A shared campus resource, the Science Building fulfills the vision and needs of the Auraria Campus’s three institutions: the University of Colorado Denver, Metropolitan State University, and the Community College of Denver. Realizing a shared vision, the building promotes a rich scientific education while facilitating cutting edge research.

The outcome of a consensus-building design process, AMD worked closely with 14 departments to understand shared and individual project aspirations and needs. Through iterative program proposals linked with real-time cost models, AMD created a consensus-based program and corresponding building that optimizes efficiencies and shared program opportunities while meeting the needs of each institution.

The building creates a hub for science education on campus, while transforming the existing building’s exterior image and campus presence. The building addition leverages the site’s visibility and proximity to Downtown Denver to create a new pedestrian gateway to the campus. An iconic, multi-story glazed corner creates an architectural marker on campus while providing program spaces that offer sweeping views of the campus and city. Storefront glazing on the ground level complements the pedestrian scale while revealing the character and activity of the spaces within.

Realizing a shared vision between three collegiate institutions, the building promotes a rich scientific education while facilitating cutting edge research.

The resulting building creates a hub for science education on campus, while transforming the existing building’s exterior image and campus presence.

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