The existing science labs at Rock Valley College had not been updated for nearly 40 years. Additionally, the College was experiencing a need for additional science labs to keep pace with increasing student enrollment trends, specifically in support of its growing Nursing and Health Careers programs. As a result of this identified need, Rock Valley College engaged our team to develop a programming and conceptual design study to assist them in identifying the costs associated with a potential new facility.
New lab spaces accommodated within the new facility include:
The new Science and Math Center consists of three floors and is oriented along the edge of a natural creek that runs through the center campus. This proximity provides terrific opportunities to engage the natural setting into the building through the use of glazing and vistas as well as the development of the creek itself into a series of diverse ecosystems for use by students and faculty.
A glassy atrium space serves as the building’s primary organizing element and includes sustainable design features such as a geothermal heating & cooling system, building-integrated photovoltaics, vegetative roof areas, and natural ventilation.
| Location | Rockford, Illinois |
| Size | 106,000 sf |
| Completed | 2010 |
| LEED Status | LEED Gold Certified |
| Local Architect | Saavedra Gehlhausen Architects |
| Photographer | Nels Akerlund Photography |
| Awards | 2012 AIA Award of Excellence in Architecture 2012 AIA Award of Excellence in Green Design |
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