The renovation of the outdated Science Building One, built in 1967, creates an undergraduate science hub on campus, transforming the Brutalist structure into an inclusive, welcoming center for all students. The transformed 6–story Vernier Science Center pushes the original building skin out by eight feet all around the main floor level. Wrapped in glass, the entry level will connect greenery and the natural world to the science research within while maximizing daylight in common and circulation areas. Sitting at the heart of the PSU campus in downtown Portland, the new science center will be shrouded in climbing vines, offering a softer street presence on 10th Avenue. The human-scaled entry will be surrounded by oversized tree planters signaling an accessible, community-minded destination that supports practical and applied learning for students from every background.  

Our design process leveraged a Critical Race spatial lens to address historic inequalities in science education, engaging BIPOC and indigenous students in dialogue that directly influenced our decisions. In considering programming, open and informal learning areas, imagery, artwork, and lighting, we sought a design that would represent and celebrate all students’ needs, experiences and cultural traditions. Carefully curated spaces such as a community gathering room, a decolonized library, and a food/plant teaching kitchen push beyond typical Westernized lab offerings to allow indigenous communities to gather and explore science in ways more meaningful and familiar to them. A theme of science on display throughout the building will also allow students to showcase their work, contributing to a vibrant, collaborative environment that will motivate Oregon’s future scientists to excel in their field.