Cornerstone University Jack and Mary De Witt Center for Science and Technology

The Jack and Mary De Witt Center for Science and Technology stands as a beacon of enhanced opportunities for students pursuing science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields. Responding to the burgeoning interest among high school students, the University has successfully expanded its showcase of opportunities in these majors.

The architectural marvel encompasses a laboratory wing, a versatile classroom and office wing, a rain garden, and a captivating glass atrium. In a deliberate effort to showcase science in action, the design incorporates large windows in classrooms and laboratories, fostering transparency and visual engagement. Adding a touch of natural elegance, a 374-square-foot green wall, powered by the LiveWall® Indoor Living Wall System, graces the interior.

Comprising two separate LiveWall structures with shared infrastructure, these living walls, each 14.5 feet wide, 4 feet deep, and 10 feet tall, seamlessly blend into one continuous structure when viewed from the atrium, spanning the second and third floors. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the living wall serves a functional purpose by providing passive biofiltration within the building, aligning with the team’s commitment to environmental stewardship.

The project encountered challenges during the design phase, with the initial plan exceeding the budgeted square footage. In response, the Christman’s Project Planning Group collaborated closely with the project team and the University to streamline the design without compromising on functionality or architectural features. The phased buyout strategy allowed for the commencement of site and building shell work, accommodating the academic calendar and providing the design team the necessary time to finalize the details. Rigorous mock-ups were constructed to ensure the satisfaction of the University with the high-end materials used in the building.

Working within the confines of a compact, fully operational campus presented logistical hurdles for the project team. Prioritizing safety, the team meticulously managed construction to ensure normal campus operations continued seamlessly. Rerouting campus traffic through temporary sidewalks and fencing during sidewalk construction, expedited work, and minimized disruptions. The challenge of a confined construction site necessitated creative solutions for material access, especially for the facility’s towering 50-foot atrium. The team’s coordinated deliveries and inventive approaches ensured optimal use of the limited space.

Unfavorable weather conditions posed another obstacle, prompting the adoption of panelized exterior walls over traditional framing methods to counter lost time. Negotiating a complex network of campus utilities required strategic coordination with the University, utilizing shutdown times and off-hour work to minimize disruptions to campus activities. Despite these challenges, the Jack and Mary De Witt Center emerged as a testament to innovation, collaboration, and resilience, providing a cutting-edge environment for STEM education within the university community.