University of California, Merced, Engineering and Science Building

As the first of three new engineering and natural science buildings on campus, this new engineering and classroom building was designed with the “Complete Engineer” in mind.

As you enter the first floor you are immersed in student-driven spaces that are supported by a central corridor that opens directly to the exterior and concentrates activity within the outdoor living room. From there you are greeted with a glass–enclosed stair that leads to an active program of engineering education and collaboration that spills out of the classrooms and into the central corridor, fostering casual cross-disciplinary interaction of students and faculty. This vertical connection continues at several points along its length, allowing for greater connectivity between floors and provide light-filled gathering spaces on each floor. As you explore deeper into the research building, interactive learning environments welcome all users, creating an academic hub that includes computer labs, a machine shop, general and lab classrooms, collaborative and quiet spaces, and a vivarium.

The L-shaped building defines two sides of the outdoor living space with a grand, three-story passageway that welcomes students entering from the main campus pathways while framing views to the campus. Its glass sunshades overlay the structure and provide an outdoor space that is several degrees cooler than in the sunlight. Once mature, trees will form a dense canopy over the outdoor living space providing further shade, encouraging student collaboration beyond the walls of learning.