University Of Massachusetts, Lowell, MA
Phased renovation of a 1970's life sciences center results in a state-of-the-art teaching and research facility
Olsen Hall, located on UMass Lowell’s North Campus, is a six-story concrete building originally constructed in 1971 as a biology research and teaching facility. Having undergone only minimal, localized renovations over the past 45 years, Goody Clancy transformed the facility to support a collaborative and innovative atmosphere for students and faculty.
Our programming and conceptual design study, conducted in close collaboration with faculty, identified the following goals:
- New undergraduate classrooms to support the University’s North Campus
- Additional flexible teaching laboratory space to bolster the biology program
- A new vivarium designed to meet current standards, to replace the outmoded facility
- Additional research lab space to sustain new PIs or expanded PI groups
- Additional core research facilities
The renovation enhances the building's technological capabilities and its overall aesthetic. State-of-the-art Sony Vision technology increases collaboration and creativity within classrooms, and New accent walls and energy efficient lighting drastically improve the appearance and functionality of spaces throughout the facility, from offices to classrooms to student lounges. In addition to aesthetic and technology upgrades, the renewal includes building-wide improvements that address accessibility, safety, energy efficiency, and sustainability.
