Bethel University worked closely with BWBR to develop a design solution that responds both to a broad vision of the university’s future and Bethel’s unique learning through discovery approach in the sciences. The selected renovation and addition pursuit promotes intentional faculty-student interaction, project-based learning opportunities, tutoring resources, and student-faculty research programs. Enhanced programming for lab and teaching spaces, along with simple and clear circulation to improve wayfinding, advanced the overall quality of the science education experience.

The remarkable three-story design blends seamlessly on campus to give the university a modern yet timeless asset for staff and students. A phased construction plan brought the project online while safeguarding the university’s cash flow and achieving strategic objectives. Phase 1 remodeled existing space for a new engineering program and was completed in time for an accreditation visit. The Phase 2 three-story addition included fume hood-intensive teaching and research labs, as well as an exterior design that maximizes visibility into and out of the high-tech facility.