
Transformative Architecture: The New Robert Day Sciences Center
The recently completed Robert Day Sciences Center at Claremont McKenna College marks a significant milestone as BIG's first built project in the Los Angeles area. This architectural marvel encapsulates a vision of interdisciplinary learning, bringing together students and faculty in a dynamic environment designed for collaboration and engagement.
An Architectural Gem in Claremont
Situated just outside of Los Angeles, the Robert Day Sciences Center is a five-storey structure that integrates classrooms, labs, and social spaces. The building features a series of stacked rectangular volumes, uniquely rotated at 45 degrees, surrounding a central atrium. This atrium serves not just as a passageway but as a vibrant social hub where students and professors can connect. According to Bjarke Ingels, founder of BIG, the design aimed to create a series of parallel building volumes that foster openness and transparency.
Environmental Considerations: A LEED Gold Certified Space
The building epitomizes sustainable architecture by pursuing a LEED Gold certification. Its roof houses nearly 11,000 square feet of solar panels, contributing to the college's goals of renewable energy and environmental stewardship. Each of the eight outdoor terraces incorporates native landscaping, enhancing biodiversity while offering additional social and study areas for students. By blending functionality with sustainability, Claremont McKenna College sets a green example for institutions across higher education.
Creating Space for Interdisciplinary Learning
The Robert Day Sciences Center embodies Claremont McKenna's commitment to integrated sciences, allowing for collaboration among various fields. As the first building in BIG's master plan for the college, it adds a modern twist to the educational landscape—tailored not just for sciences such as genetics and climate studies, but also for fostering creativity and critical thinking across disciplines. Claremont McKenna College President Hiram E. Chodosh emphasizes that the design encourages learning at intersections, furthering the mission of preparing future leaders.
Inside the Building: A Blend of Aesthetics and Functionality
The interior of the Sciences Center is just as captivating as its exterior. Decorated in the school's colors of red and gold, the building features interior panels made of Douglas fir that provide a warm, inviting atmosphere. The atrium invites natural light and visual connection, as classrooms and labs are placed in a way that allows for transparency within the learning processes. Within this interactive space, students gain not only academic knowledge but also social experiences that contribute to their overall personal growth.
Looking Forward: The Future of Claremont McKenna College
With the completion of the Robert Day Sciences Center, Claremont McKenna College looks poised to redefine the educational experience. As more students arrive to explore this newly minted facility, expectations are high for the collaborative efforts that will emerge within its walls. This architectural achievement is not merely about aesthetics; it represents a long-term investment in enriching educational practices and fostering a vibrant academic community.
In conclusion, the Robert Day Sciences Center stands as a beacon for innovative teaching practices and interdisciplinary collaboration, setting a higher standard for educational facilities. Whether you're a student, educator, or an architecture enthusiast, this building offers something valuable to learn and experience.
As digital nomads seeking efficient and comfortable remote workspaces, consider how the principles of design and collaboration used in the Sciences Center could inspire your own workspace. How can you create an environment that fosters learning and engagement in your daily routine? Explore these ideas and bring new life to your remote work setup!
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