This modern academic research facility finds its inspiration from the nearby sea
Texas A&M University–Corpus Christi (TAMU-CC) is in a prime location to support coastal, marine, and environmental science curricula. However, the teaching-oriented campus lacked laboratory space to facilitate graduate- and doctoral-level research and needed a facility to better accommodate these quickly growing programs.
Our architecture team designed the new Tidal Hall Life Science Research Building to serve as the gateway to a vibrant new research area. Facing the Corpus Christi Bay, the building visually connects laboratories with their research source—but also sits in a direct hurricane path. Our design responds by locating lab spaces at the center and circulation on the perimeter, organizing the building into layers that act as protective shields. We arranged the building vertically, placing teaching labs on the south and research labs on the north end of an east-west corridor. This enables each of the three floors to house 12 open research units—six on either side of a common support zone. Following a modular approach, the zones accommodate dedicated spaces for specific researchers and shared functions such as tissue culture, drying ovens, microscopy, and freezer rooms. Other amenities include specialized vacuum hoods, compressed air systems, an autoclave room, aquariums, and marine life observation rooms.
Our final design provides the enhanced flexibility and resources needed to both maintain TAMU-CC’s designation as a Research II Doctoral University and support their pursuit toward becoming one of the world’s premiere academic research institutions.
At a Glance
- Awards
- American School & University Architectural Portfolio – Outstanding Design, Post-Secondary, 2020
- Learning By Design Awards of Excellence – Outstanding Design, College/University, 2020
Tracy Eich, Senior Principal, Texas Design Leader
Architecture at its core is problem solving—but at its essence, it’s also a form of behavioral science, and the quality of the spaces we create affects the human spirit.
Cynthia Labelle, Principal, Buildings
My superpower is problem solving and creativity—I look for the big picture and work to connect the dots.
Steve Parker, Principal
I believe that we should deliver each project as if it was our last great work.
Michael Reagan, Vice President, Buildings
The laboratories we plan and design may ultimately contribute to the discovery of something that will significantly and positively impact our lives.
Maureen McLaine, Senior Interior Designer
Any space can be personal, emotional, and energizing to both the designer and user. We translate that message through intentional design.
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