Add as a preferred source on Google

UAB Completes Phase I of STEM Complex Construction

  • By Matt Jones
  • 09/14/23

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

  • University of Rhode Island, Gilbane Partner for Three New Residence Halls

    The University of Rhode Island in Kingston, R.I., recently announced a public-private partnership with construction development firm Gilbane, according to a news release. Gilbane will soon start construction on three new residence halls with a total of 1,100 beds: two with apartment-style suites in northwest campus, and a reconstruction of the Graduate Village Apartments for graduate students.

  • LSU Breaks Ground on $200M Residential Project

    Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, La., recently broke ground on a new residential complex, according to university news. The South Quad residential project will consist of two buildings and add a total of 1,266 beds for freshmen students. The development comes with a price tag of $200 million, and it’s scheduled to open to students in fall 2027.

  • UNL Kiewit Hall

    Designing for Engineering Excellence: Integrating Sustainability and Wellness at UNLs Kiewit Hall

    Kiewit Hall at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln exemplifies how academic institutions can integrate sustainability and wellness into modern learning environments. With an integrated and collaborative team approach, Kiewit Hall addresses enhanced learning and creativity, physical health, and mental wellness, and fosters a sense of community through innovative design, operations, and policy solutions.

  • T&T Construction Management Group Completes Pasco High School Expansion

    Pasco High School in Dade City, Fla., recently announced that it has completed an expansion project in partnership with T&T Construction Management Group, Inc., Harvard Jolly Architecture, and Williams Company.

Digital Edition