Central Texas College District, Planetarium and Technology Center

Killeen, Texas

Firm

Freese and Nichols, Inc.

Client

Central Texas College District

Area

55,000 sq.ft.

Total Cost

$9,000,000

Completion Date

03/2003

The Central Texas College Planetarium and Technology Center is a two-story facility that houses a planetarium with domed theater, 18 classrooms, three videoconference rooms, two computer labs, a science lab, an instructional-development lab, a faculty training lab, a conference room and 32 faculty/staff offices. It is the largest building on campus, with a high-profile location on the campus mall. Its exterior design reflects the campus’ Spanish/Mediterranean style.
The entire facility, from floor to ceiling, is designed to instruct, inform and inspire. The terrazzo floor system incorporates an astrological theme and features a historical timeline of astrology and astronomy, the solar system and various other constellations, with details such as the planets’ diameters and their distance from Earth. The 60-foot domed theater has seating for 150 and is the largest theater of its kind in Texas.

“Skillful use of materials. Effort to make the building a teaching tool to reinforce educational concepts taught. Good sense of place.”–2003 jury