Higher Education Expertise Qualifications

Whittier College, Science & Learning Center

Whittier, CA

TYPE: SIZE:

Tenant Improvement 88,000 SF

This project was for complete renovation of the 1966 Stauffer Science Building at Whittier College and included seismic and accessibility upgrades, as well as new utility infrastructure and equipment. The long, raised-box form of the existing building was re-appropriated to create a more eye-catching exterior and improve the building’s relationship to the campus. Facing the campus quad, a nearly continuous glass facade is interrupted by terracotta pop-outs that serve as cross-disciplinary break out alcoves. Building consists of Labs and classrooms, all which have been reconfigured featuring at least one glass wall, revealing student endeavors. Open study spaces are located throughout the building creating spaces for students to have meaningful interactions beyond the classroom. There is a two-story lobby with a staircase in the shape of a DNA helix providing a route up to the campus proper and a fifth-floor ‘penthouse’ providing inspiring views, unique classroom environments, and dedicated terrace space for the astronomy program’s telescopes The mechanical for the project consisted of a chilled water system with hot water reheat and custom air-handling units with variable frequency drives for a variable air volume (VAV) system. In addition, VAV fume hood exhaust systems with demand response were provided for maximum energy efficiency.