$102 Million Center for Natural Sciences, Mathematics & Nursing Will Transform STEM Learning and Serve as a Magnet for Campus Activity
At the heart of Bowie State University (BSU), an iconic new building designed by Perkins+Will epitomizes the future for one of Maryland’s most historic institutions of higher learning. The $102 million, 149,000 square-foot Center for Natural Sciences, Mathematics & Nursing (CNSMN) is a vibrant magnet for campus activity that engages, inspires, promotes collaboration, and stands as a light-filled monument to the university’s commitment to increase the number of under-represented minorities earning advanced degrees in the sciences and technology.
“We designed the CNSMN to express the state of Maryland’s and Bowie State University’s future as the pre-eminent nexus for STEM learning and exploration in the Mid-Atlantic,” said Paul Harney of Perkins+Will. “The architectural openness supports cross-disciplinary connections, and its transparency fosters a sense of both excitement and welcome. This building will support and inspire a competitive edge in career preparation for its students.”
The new building hosts a unique consolidation of the university’s Departments of Natural Sciences, Nursing, and Mathematics and was underscored by sustainable design with the goal of achieving LEED Gold certification. The sustainable elements include 25,000 square feet of dynamic glass that tints on demand, based on exterior daylight conditions. This lowers heating and cooling costs and offers unobstructed access to light and outdoor views. A three-story cylindrical multi-purpose space, known as “the Beacon”, also promotes “learning on display” with expansive glass walls that engage people inside and outside with the activities of the building.
The design for the new CNSMN building is rooted in three core ideas: Arise, which is a call to action to rise to the occasion and embrace challenges; Advance, which speaks to teaching and learning, growth, progress and the future; and Amplify, which is about giving voice, making an impact, changing, and giving back.
A branding program created by Perkins+Will is representational of BSU’s identity and establishes a unique sense of place. Inspired by fractals – patterns found in mathematics, African art and nature – colorful wall coverings and branded “showcase moments” at corridor intersections create bold mosaic-like shapes that distinguish the three disciplines housed inside, and yet connect them to the each other.
“I am proud that Bowie State University now has a state-of-the-art Center for Natural Sciences, Mathematics and Nursing that will inspire and attract top-notch students and faculty in the STEM fields,” said Bowie State University President Mickey L. Burnim. “This outstanding new facility will catalyze the university’s efforts to expand the use of collaborative, hands-on teaching models, and continue to position Bowie State University at the leading edge of innovation in STEM education and undergraduate research.”
Fanning out from the Beacon are 23 hands-on team-based research and instructional labs, five state-of-the art active learning classrooms, and three complete nursing simulation suites – all oriented along two academic axis lines. Other key features include:
- Flexible classrooms with movable furnishings and technology to support interactive, collaborative learning,
- A state-of-the-art nursing simulation wing that replicates medical facilities delivering critical care to patients,
- Large expanses of interior glass in the labs and classrooms that offer views into science and research in action,
- A fully integrated greenhouse that supports teaching and research in plant sciences, and
- A dynamic communications board that features stories that inform, inspire, and connect.
About Perkins+Will
Perkins+Will is an interdisciplinary, research-based architecture and design firm established in 1935. Founded on the belief that design has the power to transform lives and enhance communities, we collaborate with clients all over the world to create healthy, sustainable places in which to live, learn, work, play, and heal. More than 2,000 professionals across over 20 Perkins+ Will offices include some of the brightest minds in architecture, interior design, branded environments, urban design, and landscape architecture. Clients consistently turn to us for our leadership and expertise in areas like sustainability, resilience, health and wellness, and mobility. Additionally, our 10 Research Labs catalyze innovative design technologies and solutions that result in better, smarter, more competitive built environments. The recipient of hundreds of design awards each year, and a progressive leader in corporate social responsibility, Perkins+Will is consistently ranked among the world’s top design firms. Our family of partner companies includes retail strategy and design consultancy Portland; transportation planning consultancy NelsonNygaard; healthcare technology planning firm Genesis; and luxury hospitality design firmPierre-Yves Rochon (PYR).
Located in the heart of the nation’s capital, the Washington, D.C. office of Perkins_Will is a diverse practice delivering thoughtful, transformative, client-focused solutions. As a leader in the marketplace, our client roster includes institutional, corporate, government and individual leaders who are on the forefront of building and shaping our region. For more information, visit www.perkinswill.com.
