PROVIDENCE — The Division of Engineering and Department of Physics at Brown University have a new building. The design of the 17,000-square-foot, two-level structure incorporates the original 1960s complex and provides space for digital imaging; rapid prototyping; and computing, electronic, mechanical, electrical, and civil and bioengineering laboratories. A studio laboratory allows lectures and laboratory studies to occur in the same room. All labs feature fiber optics for voice and data transmission.
The new building is at the end of one of Brown's major pedestrian walkways, Manning Walk, and creates a new entrance to the existing physics and engineering complex. The curved form of the front facade anchors the end of the walkway opposite the Soldiers Memorial Arch two blocks away. Limestone, granite, metal panel, maple and colored-concrete materials combine to create a modern image. The building blends high-tech equipment with cutting-edge construction and design features, such as a series of ramps on the interior that accommodates several changes in elevations on the site and facilitates the flow of students within the building and those en route to the two adjacent buildings. Natural light permeates the building through clerestory windows, glass ceilings in the interior labs and open slots along the interior ramp.
Architect for the project is Payette Associates. George B.H. Macomber Company is construction manager.