Herzog & de Meuron Innovate with Mass-Timber at Amherst College

Swiss architects Herzog & de Meuron have transformed a former science center into a modern student hub at Amherst College, Massachusetts, by reusing existing concrete foundations and incorporating sustainable mass-timber construction. This innovative approach not only preserves the architectural legacy of the 1960s Merrill Science Center but also aligns with Amherst's carbon neutrality goals.

What Happened
Herzog & de Meuron have unveiled a groundbreaking project that repurposes the foundations of the old Merrill Science Center at Amherst College. Originally designed by Campbell, Aldrich and Nulty, the brutalist structure has been reimagined into a 120,000-square-foot Student Center & Dining Commons, expanded from the original 80,000 square feet. The project integrates mass-timber construction with the existing concrete framework, utilizing Canadian Black Spruce for the upper levels and maintaining the concrete base. The new construction features a gradation of cedar cladding, ranging from light to dark, and incorporates solar shading with deep eaves.

The design strategy included demolishing the adjacent McGuire building to create a more open and accessible site, reconnecting the campus with its surrounding green spaces. The building now features a central stairway and a passageway that navigates the sloped site, providing seamless access from the upper quad to the lower green spaces. A rooftop social area, study spaces, and a winter garden courtyard enhance the building's functionality and aesthetic appeal.

What This Means for Your Business
For AECM professionals, the Herzog & de Meuron project at Amherst College exemplifies the potential of sustainable design in repurposing existing structures. By reusing foundations and integrating mass-timber, the project reduces construction waste, minimizes carbon footprint, and showcases innovative hybrid construction techniques. This approach offers a model for future projects aiming to meet sustainability goals without sacrificing design integrity.

For contractors and procurement directors, this project highlights the importance of sourcing sustainable materials and adopting hybrid construction methods. It underscores the demand for expertise in mass-timber construction and the potential for cost savings through the reuse of existing structures. Moreover, the project aligns with increasing regulatory pressures to meet environmental standards, offering a competitive edge in securing future contracts.

What US Operators Should Watch
US operators should closely monitor evolving regulations and incentives related to sustainable construction practices. The success of the Amherst project may lead to increased demand for mass-timber and hybrid construction methodologies, impacting procurement strategies. Additionally, as federal and state governments push for carbon neutrality, operators should prepare for stricter compliance requirements and potential funding opportunities for sustainable projects.

Source: Dezeen. Read the original story ->