Susquehanna University’s new science center – the largest academic building on campus at the time of its construction – was designed to strengthen interdisciplinary education and expand research capacity. STV provided full architectural and engineering design services for the 81,000‑square‑foot, three‑story facility, which brings together biology, chemistry and earth and environmental sciences in a flexible setting that reflects the university’s Georgian-style campus architecture. The building supports both collaborative learning and student‑faculty research through an array of modern instructional, research and interaction spaces.
What challenges did STV address?
The university sought a resource‑efficient science facility that would foster interdisciplinary exchange, support future program growth and improve campus sustainability. The team needed to integrate a wide variety of specialized spaces – research labs, teaching labs, seminar rooms, offices, lounges and a rooftop greenhouse – while maintaining a cohesive architectural character and minimizing site impact.
What solutions did STV deliver?
STV designed the facility with stacked, narrow floor plates to reduce the building footprint, conserve materials and lower energy consumption. The design incorporated modern laboratories, shared resource areas, an open central atrium, and a campus‑serving coffee shop to promote interaction. Sustainability strategies included high-efficiency boilers, energy-recovery systems, low-flow chemical hoods, computerized HVAC controls, low-flow water fixtures and efficient landscaping. These measures contributed to the facility earning LEED Silver certification.
How does this project benefit the community?
The science center expands research opportunities, strengthens interdisciplinary collaboration and provides a modern learning environment that supports long‑term academic innovation. Its sustainable design reduces operational costs and environmental impact, benefiting both the university and the surrounding community.
Key stats and accolades
- 81,000‑sf, three‑story science center
- LEED Silver certified
- Rooftop greenhouse and advanced lab spaces
- Resource‑efficient compact footprint
- Student‑faculty collaboration areas and open atrium
