The design not only consolidates the various departments into one location but organizes them into classroom and research facilities that support their individual pursuits while opening them to more spontaneous interactions, cross-discipline. We’ve moved researchers and professors out of their hidden labs into bright, glass-fronted spaces where students and other faculty can be more readily engaged. The center circulation space is a multi-story glass ‘lantern’ which is also used for functions. The sustainable building materials used reflect the site’s natural beauty. This LEED Platinum building will also act as a teaching lab of sustainable and innovative construction technologies.