Burrill Hall: School of Molecular & Cellular Biology

University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, Illinois

The Burrill Hall project included the renovation of an existing library/learning center and library stacks to create a central area for the School of Molecular and Cellular Biology (MCB) at the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign. The design combined MCB instructional spaces and MCB advising into one area of Burrill Hall instead of two separate buildings.

The existing first floor library/learning center was renovated into a new educational learning center, free-form learning area, exam rooms, a writer’s workshop room and additional support spaces.  

The existing three-floor library stacks were renovated to include classrooms on the lower two floors. The top floor now includes faculty offices and a reception area for MCB student advising. Each floor also offers a conference space.

 

2L - lobby 2
The Challenge

How do we renovate an existing library/learning center and library stacks to create one central area for the School of Molecular and Cellular Biology to increase student engagement and redefine the educational space?

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The Solution

By combining instructional and advising spaces into one area of Burrill Hall instead of two separate buildings. creating a sense of pride and connection. 

Features
  • Flexible educational spaces
  • Support spaces
  • Life safety issues addressed
  • New M/E/P systems
  • ​Historic renovation