UAB Completes Phase I of STEM Complex Construction

The University of Alabama at Birmingham recently announced that the first phase of construction on a new Science and Engineering Complex is complete, according to a news release. The university is partnering with Hoar Construction on the three-phase project, which will unite all of the university’s basic science undergraduate and graduate programs underneath one roof. Phase I consists of a 138,842-square-foot, four-story facility featuring labs and classrooms for biology, chemistry, and physics, as well as administrative space.

“We are proud to deliver this project to the students, faculty, and staff at UAB, as the new Science and Engineering Complex represents a significant commitment to advancing the university’s prowess as a key research hub that enhances career opportunities and bolsters economic development across Alabama,” said Chad Holland, project executive at Hoar. “This project was completed at the highest quality for the next generation of students, leaders and innovators within science and engineering. Hoar remains steadfast in our commitment to build top-tier projects across all realms of higher education, and we are honored to contribute to the university’s growth in our hometown of Birmingham.”

The facility was designed as a team-learning environment that will promote student collaboration between both students and faculty in different scientific disciplines. Specialized workspaces include an optics lab, research labs for student shadowing, and cold-growth environment rooms.

The news release reports that Hoar used computerized, 3D models of the structure to address design concerns during the construction process. The models were used to assess material quantities, optimize item placement, and identify design conflicts. Additionally, Building Information Modeling (BIM) were used to streamline the installation of plumbing and electrical components to save both time and cost.

The university is also partnering with lead architect Goodwyn, Mills & Cawood for the building’s design, as well as Lord Aeck Sargent (LAS) for lab and research space consulting.

About the Author

Matt Jones is senior editor of Spaces4Learning. He can be reached at [email protected].

Featured

  • Greenheck Launches Optics Sensors for Kitchen Hoods

    Greenheck recently announced the launch of factory-installed optics sensors as an enhanced option for its kitchen ventilation hoods, according to a news release.

  • University of Kentucky Stormwater Harvesting System Receives Award

    The Utilities and Energy Management team from the University of Kentucky recently received a Grand Award at the 2025 Engineering Excellence Awards, according to a university news release. The award from the American Council of Engineering Companies of Kentucky was for the university’s Central Utility Plant (CUP) Stormwater Harvesting System, which activated in fall 2023.

  • Creating Long-Term Sustainability on College Campuses Through Fair Student Housing

    The quality of student housing can have a significant impact on an individual’s college experience. Today’s higher education institutions face mounting challenges, including declining enrollment, low retention rates between the first and second years, and a rise in student mental health concerns. Thoughtfully designed living spaces can help address these issues by creating environments that promote both academic focus and personal well-being.

  • Springfield Breaks Ground on $53.7M Pipkin Middle School Rebuild

    Construction is underway on a new, state-of-the-art Pipkin Middle School in Springfield, Mo., a major step in Springfield Public Schools’ (SPS) long-term facility improvement plan, according to local news. The $53.7-million project officially broke ground in early June, following years of planning and community input aimed at modernizing aging infrastructure and addressing student capacity concerns.

Digital Edition