Scientifically Advanced Research Complex Completed at Arizona State

Studio Ma has unveiled their innovative, scientifically advanced building concept created for Arizona State University’s planned ISTB-7 — an interdisciplinary science and research complex with a vast atrium biome full of plants and water.

ASU Science Center

Bringing together regenerative and bioclimactic technologies, ISTB-7 is conceived as a highly sustainable science and technology center for the ASU Tempe campus. The transit-oriented solution includes a light rail station, and the structure’s climate-responsive, regenerative technologies transform it into a source of energy, water, carbon and other nutrients.

The Studio Ma design for the Interdisciplinary Science & Technology Building, or ISTB-7, ensures it will produce enough carbon, energy, water and waste to achieve triple net-zero performance. To do so, ISTB-7 building materials absorb carbon and convert it to life-giving nutrients for durable materials and enriched soil. Its atrium biome purifies waste air, and a wetlands landscape recycles water using natural, bio-based methods. Rainwater is collected, and sun shades keep the interiors cool and comfortable.

Materials incorporate ASU’s own cutting-edge scientific research on integrated carbon-capture technology. Methods to save and produce energy include air currents, evapotranspiration and photovoltaics. The complex treats and recycles sewage for use as greywater using low-energy, bio-based systems. With its rail transit connection, the complex creates a new campus gateway.

Featured

  • modern college building with circuit and brain motifs

    Anthropic Introduces Claude for Education

    Anthropic has launched a version of its Claude AI assistant tailored for higher education institutions. Claude for Education "gives academic institutions secure, reliable AI access for their entire community," the company said, to enable colleges and universities to develop and implement AI-enabled approaches across teaching, learning, and administration.

  • Electrifying Bus Fleets

    Now is an excellent time for K-12 “yellow” school buses, college campus transportation, and public transit systems to transition to zero-emission electric buses instead of traditional gas or diesel-powered models.

  • Texas District Breaks Ground on New Elementary School

    The Splendora Independent School District (SISD) in Splendora, Texas, recently broke ground on a replacement facility for Greenleaf Elementary School, according to a news release. The district partnered with planning, engineering and program management firm Lockwood, Andrews & Newnam, Inc. (LAN) for the project.

  • Education Design Showcase

    Spaces4Learning Launches 2025 Education Design Showcase

    Spaces4Learning is now accepting submissions for the 2025 Education Design Showcase! Launched in 1999, the program celebrates innovative and practical solutions in planning, design, and construction.