MEINEL OPTICAL SCIENCES WEST BUILDING EXPANSION
Description: This building received a 2007 American Institute of Architects (AIA) National Honor Award for Architecture, the profession's highest recognition of works that exemplify excellence in architecture, interior design and urban planning. It was one of only 11 buildings worldwide and the only Tucson building to ever receive an honor award in the award's 59-year history. The goal of the project was to create a building commensurate with the international reputation of the College of Optical Sciences and enable the College to retain its status as one of the world's premier optical instructional and research programs. The new expansion includes meeting space, faculty offices and research labs.
Project Number 99-8120
Phase

Project Links

Architectural Lighting article (32MB)
Meinel Webcam 1
Meinel Webcam 2
Awards & Publications
Optical Sciences Center Web Site
Sustainability Highlights
Virtual Design Tour

 Delivery Method CMR
Projected Budget $17,200,000 [learn more]
Size 53381 gross sq. ft.
36298 net sq. ft.
Construction Schedule April 2003 - April 2006
Building Number(s)
PDC Design Manager Carr, May
PDC Construction Manager McCarthy, Dennis
Architech/Engineer Richard & Bauer Architecture
Contractor Lloyd Construction Co Inc
Martin Lang Construction LLC dba Lang Wyatt Construction
CM Lloyd Construction Co Inc
Design Intent: The facility's design features incorporate optical science materials and methods. One example of this is the building organization which emphasizes the contrast of "blind" and "seeing" spaces. "Blind" Space - Light sensitive research functions are organized along the southern, windowless side of the building. The cast-in-place concrete building is sheathed in copper panels, recalling the color of the campus brick in an interpretive way. The skin is designed as a breathable "rain screen", which protects the inner membrane from the harsh desert sun. "Seeing" Space - Office and support space open to natural light and views of the campus mall and mountains to the north. The glass wall is folded as an interpretation of a Fresnel lens. The simultaneous use of reflection and transparency recall the rhythm and texture of the existing building's pre-cast facade. The interior public space was conceived as an abstraction of another optical device: the Camera Oscura. Daylight is introduced by three vertical light shafts, and allowed to interact and modulate the spaces within. Each shaft features specific optical effect, allowing natural daylight to actively integrate into daily activities within the building.