Holabird & Root was chosen to design a series of buildings at Grinnell College, including both phases of its Noyce Science Center. The College sought a multidiscipline academic building that would draw different departments together and encourage collaboration. The project needed to be completed in two phases: First, a renovation of the existing space with a small addition, and second, a 108,000-s.f. addition. For the large addition, Grinnell pursued LEED Silver certification.
The facility was originally built in several phases, which resulted in a fragmented plan. One of the toughest questions to be answered was how to unify the fragmented plan and make it easy to get around.
Furthermore, knowing that the second phase would not be complete for several years, the design needed to accommodate future needs.
Holabird & Root’s solution to the fragmented plan was to wrap an addition along the primary facade of the original building, resulting in a common circulation passage and more comprehensive unity. During Phase I, the site for the future expansion was selected and the recently completed Phase II addition fits harmoniously with the building. The renovation and additions provided additional space that allowed more functions, integrated improved technology, provided greater energy efficiency, and created access to natural light and views.
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