William Paterson University gets HOK-designed ‘Science Annex’ in New Jersey

The New York office of HOK has designed the new Science Annex to promote interactive learning environment. The new addition contains 18 state-of-the-art modular research laboratories designed to support undergraduate studies and research, and 12 teaching labs. Research and laboratory spaces are configured to allow for collaboration between faculty and students. The building also contains two 75-seat lecture halls with one containing traditional theater seating while the other displaying a nontraditional horseshoe shape. The horseshoe shape promotes collaborative experience between faculty and students.

The Science Annex is equipped with the latest digital technology. Nine laboratories are outfitted with touch-screen digital control systems to which faculty can connect laptops, document cameras, DVD/VCR/Blu-Ray players or other digital equipment. Five classrooms contain single unit digital displays with podiums and touch screen control systems and three additional classrooms are equipped with dual projectors to allow for multiple projected images. Each classroom and laboratory has an electronic screen with ceiling-mounted LCD projectors. The entire building is outfitted with wireless technology.

The annex is incorporated with numerous gathering spaces for students, including a large lounge located in a new two-story atrium entrance that connects the Science Annex to the existing Science Building. One wall in the atrium will feature historical timelines of the disciplines that will be located in the building. Informal learning spaces are also located at the end of each hallway of the three-story facility, allowing students to collaborate, connect to the network, and socialize. Large windows throughout the building take advantage of natural light and facility’s location in tree-filled Caldwell Plaza.

WPU has commenced phase two of the scheme which involves renovation of the 165,000 square feet existing Science Building, which was built in 1972. Due to be completed in mid-2011, the renovation will include new computer labs, teaching labs, a microscopy suite, ‘smart’ classrooms with digital network and audiovisual capabilities, a new greenhouse, and wireless technology.