It is reported that Oregon State University in the United States announced the construction of the first groundbreaking large-scale wood research laboratory. Designed by architect firm ZGF, the $213 million project aims to be a hub for teaching, interdisciplinary research on global challenges such as climate science, clean energy and water.
The 143,000-square-foot, three-story building is not only a research facility, but also a modern temple of science that integrates teaching, experimentation, computing, and cross-functional collaboration. In particular, it will be the first full-quality wood laboratory to meet strict vibration standards (2000 microinches per second, MIPS) to ensure accuracy and stability in highly sensitive scientific research.
The center will also introduce one of the nation's top supercomputers to showcase its cutting-edge computing power and use the heat generated by the supercomputer to heat buildings through an efficient heat recovery system that is expected to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2030.
This is the first time that ZGF Architects has partnered with the Oregon State University College of Forestry to build this large-scale timber structure research institute with its expertise in timber and regional forestry. To meet stringent vibration standards, the project team cleverly designed a structural compartment inside the lab, using quality timber columns, beams, and composite decks to ensure architectural stability and research accuracy.
This innovative approach not only provided the stability needed for the study, but also significantly reduced its carbon footprint, which was reduced by up to 108% compared to traditional all-concrete buildings. Wood not only enhances the aesthetics of the building, but also creates a warm and inspiring environment for academic research.
Vladimir Pajkic, Chief Designer and Partner at ZGF, said: "During the planning process, we were keenly aware of the enormous potential of wood as a building material. Through well-designed structures and building systems, we have succeeded in integrating large quantities of wood into the research building, meeting the needs of scientific research while demonstrating the appeal and sustainability of wood. ”
The building's exterior design features electrochromic glass, combined with an intelligent building control system, which automatically adjusts the hue based on the position of the sun and cloud cover, optimizing indoor light and temperature, creating a comfortable and productive working environment for researchers.