Creighton University, Hixson-Lied Science Building

Omaha, Nebraska

Firm

HDR Architecture

Client

Creighton University

Area

110,000 sq.ft.

Total Cost

$15,500,000

Completion Date

11/2003

To compete with other universities, the new science center had to be “student-friendly” and have many amenities for both the structured classroom and casual meeting/study environments.
Common areas were a high priority. They needed to promote a casual environment and be conducive to the study habits of busy students. Common areas are situated along major circulation pathways to encourage interaction among students from the various science classrooms.
The atrium is situated at the major circulation intersection of the existing buildings to identify the new “front door” and elevator locations. The exposed structure of the atrium is a visual classroom for physics students. The ground-floor entry’s terrazzo floor incorporates logos from various colleges in an “atomic-inspired” design.
The student lounge and outside patio overlook a landscaped area to the east. Its west wall is lined with colorful backlighted lumicore panels to create a playful ambience. Fringe spaces around the atrium and various nooks provide casual interaction and study spaces throughout the building.