Chemistry Building
Shaping the next generation of advanced research
- Client
- University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
- Location
- Milwaukee, Wisconsin
- Size
- 163,400 square feet
- Status
- In progress
Chemistry is the bedrock of numerous burgeoning industries, and the demand for STEM professionals is rapidly outpacing that of non-STEM fields. Today's employers are seeking graduates who possess practical research experience and problem-solving skills. To meet this demand, the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (UWM) is embarking on the construction of a cutting-edge new chemistry building that will equip its students with the necessary tools to excel in a vast array of opportunities.
One of the few R1 research institutions in the Midwest, UWM's new chemistry building will replace a 50-year-old building that has not been updated or renovated since 1972. It will shift paradigms for how chemistry is taught, studied and shared, and include space for thousands of students who take chemistry and biochemistry classes each year.
Testimonials
The new chemistry building was designed to share, enhance, visualize and promote the profound research and dedicated academics of the department while fostering a cross-disciplinary and collaborative environment. There is a strong focus on highly functional laboratory spaces that celebrate the synergistic spirit of the department.
A DNA of chemistry
The building is not only designed to advance the practice and teaching of chemistry, it is physically structured to resemble protein and lattice structures like those found in chemistry research. State-of-the-art labs spaces are separated by breakout zones and pockets of public space throughout the interior, which is reflected in the building’s exterior braided pattern. This design efficiently created space to embed the alternative learning and teaching spaces that make the building unique.
As the newest addition to the schools “STEM quad”—buildings that house science, technology, engineering and math courses—the building is a destination for the broader science and research communities. The first level features two lecture halls, social spaces and expanded presentation areas that will be shared by the STEM community.