Design/Completion 2011/On-going
Mission Viejo, California
81,980 s.f.
Building Structure: Metal Braced frames
Building Materials: Curtain Wall, Terra Cotta and Swiss Pearl cladding system
The Saddleback College Interdisciplinary Science Building reflects the high aspirations of the client for both their award winning science program and the forward thinking reputation of the campus. Designed to be LEED Platinum Certified, it is envisioned as a state-of-the-art science teaching and research laboratory as well as a magnet for the entire student body.
Located adjacent to a steep hillside at the intersection of the lower and upper portions of the campus, the building serves as a figurative and literal bridge between college programs. The central, north facing three-story atrium opens to a large courtyard to be filled with exhibits and demonstration areas highlighting the disciplines taught within the building. Specialized labs for the physical sciences, life sciences and chemistry occupy each of the three floors with shared support, office, teaching and gathering spaces woven between the labs. Prep spaces wrap the exterior and allow direct access into each lab while providing natural light into each of the spaces. Access to the labs is through the enclosed atrium, creating a focus for student-teacher interaction between classes.
The faculty envisions this building as an incubator for interdepartmental programs and as a high activity center for learning. The goal is to expand the traditional role of a lower division science curriculum to serve as a catalyst for interdisciplinary study and to invigorate enthusiasm for the science. It is envisioned as “the place to be” on this exciting and innovative community college campus.
