Princeton University, Andlinger Center for Energy and the Environment

An Oasis of Innovation and Collaboration

This multidisciplinary research and education center includes laboratories, clean rooms, imaging suites, classrooms, offices, and a conference center with auditorium to support collaborative research into environmentally sustainable technologies. Severud Associates designed the concrete and steel structure to meet the sensitive needs of atomic-level research while also accommodating sunken courtyards, gardens, and other exterior spaces.

Effective Site Utilization

The three-story Andlinger Center occupies the space between two existing buildings, the Engineering Quad and Bowen Hall. Over half of the program spaces are set one-and-a-half levels below grade, minimizing the center’s visual impact from street level. Extensive plantings, including courtyards and green roofs, enhance the openness of the otherwise fully utilized site. A covered walkway provides a strong connection to the adjacent E-Quad.

Taking Advantage of Depth

Much of the sensitive laboratory equipment and the 208-seat auditorium are located in the lowest level. Proximity to the foundation facilitated Severud’s design of their supporting structure to control vibration. Although situated below ground level, these spaces benefit from natural lighting entering through three large, sunken courtyards. Trees and other plantings growing within the courtyards create views like those seen from the ground floor.

A Thoughtful Mix of Concrete and Steel

Andlinger Center is primarily framed in structural steel with concrete fill on metal deck, a system that easily accommodates the interconnecting research facilities and exterior spaces spread across different elevations. Reinforced concrete—much of it architecturally exposed—was used for the below-grade perimeter walls that resist lateral earth pressure and for a dramatic feature stair supported by columns, walls, and cantilever beams.

A Focus on Sustainability

True to its mission, the Andlinger Center incorporated green construction practices, such as using recycled steel framing and reinforcement, substituting a high proportion of blast furnace slag for cement, and minimizing construction debris. Operationally, the courtyards provide natural light and ventilation while the green roof system reduces heat gain and collects rainwater. These and other features result in reduced consumption of energy and municipal water.

Conclusion

The Andlinger Center for Energy and the Environment at Princeton University exemplifies Severud Associates’ commitment to devising innovative and sustainable engineering solutions that support groundbreaking research and education. The structural design helped realize the architect’s vision for collaborative workspaces that are seamlessly integrated with their environment while also engaging and interacting with the surrounding campus.