A rendering reveals a look at the new Science Learning Building that will begin construction on Oct. 29. It will be part of the science complex that includes Stadler Hall, Research Building, Benton Hall and the William L. Clay Building-Center for Nanoscience.

Science education at the University of Missouri–St. Louis takes a big step forward on Oct. 29, when work begins on the new Science Learning Building.

The $32 million, four-story facility will house advanced, equipment-intensive teaching laboratories. The 75,000-square-foot building also will include a solarium/town center space that will serve as the crossroads of the science complex, bringing students and faculty together for a broad range of interactions.

“This new facility will greatly enhance the education of students studying for careers in science, health care and teaching,” said UMSL Chancellor Tom George. “This addition replaces some of our oldest laboratories in Benton and Stadler halls built in the 1960s.”

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The brick, stone, glass and aluminum building will reflect the architectural context of the science complex. Study spaces along the south side of the building will have floor-to-ceiling glass. Landscaping will retain as many of the mature trees as possible.

The building will achieve the US Green Building Council Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (commonly referred to as LEED) certification for new construction and is expected to be complete by December 2015. Christner Inc. of St. Louis designed the building. K&S Associates of St. Louis was chosen as general contractors.

The Science Learning Building is one of two new facilities that UMSL will start construction on in the next few weeks. Construction is expected to begin in November on a new Recreation and Wellness Center. Located just south of the Millennium Student Center, it too should be completed in 2015.

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St. Louis Post-Dispatch