Donald Danforth Plant Science Centre

The project addresses environmental issues by prioritising the integration of sustainable features in its design principles. These are mainly in the control of natural light and heat gain.

A variety of cladding materials were used on the facades. Visually, the terracotta panels dominate, these are set within aluminium frames across the expanses of all four elevations. The elevations are serrated with concave shading devices covered by a roof profile.

These materials carry a thermal lag to cool the building during summer temperatures, reducing energy consumption. There is a four inch air space between the terracotta rainscreen and mineral fibre insulation, as well as a 16-gauge sheet moisture barrier. The atrium and roof also contribute, the former acting as a buffer between the air-conditioned laboratory spaces, and the latter's cantilevered south-side profile protecting the building from direct sunlight.

The building incorporates a central atrium, a space for use of library collections and conferences. It is predominantly a staff hub, but available to the community at certain times.

The laboratories are set in a deep-plan space and are necessarily air-conditioned. A ridged north light roof allows in daylight from above, as does the glass facade.