In the summer of 2016 we went through a complete redesign of the science labs at Bellevue University. This was a close collaboration between the global architecture company HDR and the Science Faculty and Administration, that resulted in a remarkable transformation of the science department. Last month the project was recognized with an award at the American Institute of Architects (AIA), Nebraska Excellence in Design program:

http://aiane.org/aia_design_awards/2018-AIANE-design-awards/aiane_awards_18-202.html

One of the key aspects of the project was the integrated research and collaboration, which is something we had set forth as our intention from the initial planning of the redesign. ‘Science on Display’ was kept as a central theme throughout the entire design, which the architects at HDR successfully translated into an inviting and stimulating environment (no scary ivory towers here…).

Since the redesign we have been able to integrate new and relevant research projects into our courses and have noticed a significant increase in number of students spending time in the lab spaces, even outside the required course times. This stimulates the generation of new ideas, which is essential to any science research project, and is a great experience for our students to develop critical, scientific thinking.

According to the Jury of the AIA award, the redesign “revitalized the labs for experimentation and exchange between students and faculty”, and creates a “visual atmosphere of openness and lightness.” If you want to come experience this for yourself, please stop by anytime at our ‘award-winning’ science labs and we’ll be happy to give you a tour, or even get you involved in your own science project!