Sterling and Kline Chemistry Labs Renovation and Addition
Unbuilt Design Award Submission
The Sterling Chemistry Laboratory at Yale University, when built in 1923, was considered a cutting-edge design, incorporating a flexible, factory-like interior core with a state-of-the art natural ventilation system enclosed within a ring of gothic-revival building elements.
Deeply in need of updating, renovation, and reprogramming, the SCL building, centrally located on Yale's Science Hill, was to be transformed into a new Undergraduate Science Teaching Center. The ambitious program included auditoriums, classrooms, all sciences undergraduate science teaching labs, computer labs, a dining facility and student commons, a fitness center, teaching offices, research labs with associated support facilities and offices for the University’s science departments.
Major challenges of this project included managing the effects of a substantial increase in program area and the introduction of day-lighting throughout building's deep floor plan. The proposed scheme uses a continuous, vaulted roof profile to minimize the addition's visual impact. Skylights within the barrel vault reiterate the building's plan organization and bring natural light to public spaces and laboratories. The gothic-revival exterior would be restored and extended. With a deep commitment to environmental sustainability, Yale established goals of carbon neutrality and LEED Gold certification for this building.
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Section Perspective
- Architect
- HBRA Architects Incorporatetd
- Associate Architect
- The Freelon Group
- Consultants
- Atelier Ten
- Jaffe Holden
- Olin Partnership
- Robert Silman Associates, P.C.
- SEi Companies
- Vermeulens Cost Consultants
- General contractor
- Turner Construction Companry
- Location
- New Haven, CT
- Category
- Institutional
