Bethel University

Science Facilities Renovations and Addition

Exterior view showing how the science facility blends with the existing campus aesthetic.
Exterior view highlighting the overall impact of the science facility addition.
A student utilizing a lab space with an expansive view to a lake near campus.
An ecology lab features wrap-around window views and high-tech equipment.
A lakeview lounge offers a quiet place for students to study together, complete with bar-height desk and comfortable armchairs.
An organic chemistry lab.
An organic chemistry lab with multiple lab stations.
A fluids lab features cleanable surfaces and ample room for movement throughout the lab.
A typical corridor with touchdown space for students to gather and lab entry emphasized by bright colors and built-in storage.

Bethel University

Science Facilities Renovations and Addition

Saint Paul, Minn.

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.

Size: 31,000 gross sq. ft.

Components: Research and teaching labs for biology, physics, engineering, and chemistry; student spaces; enhanced circulation improves wayfinding and access to daylight throughout the building

Completion: 2020

News & Views: Converting an Existing Campus Building into a Modern Science Lab