The PMSM Team began this project by evaluating the existing Psychology Building for deficiencies and its ability to house the Psychology Department’s program needs that have grown steadily over the years. A deficiency tabulation was conducted to evaluate the building systems and code requirements. It was determined that a comprehensive renewal and upgrade was needed to extend the useful life of the building. The scope of the 48,000 sf modernization included code upgrades, equipment replacement, and transforming vacated spaces into research and teaching laboratories.

It was also decided that an addition was needed to house program growth space for the department. Located next to the existing Psychology Building, the new 30,000 sf structure functions as the new “front door” for the department and houses administrative and faculty offices, classrooms, a computer laboratory and a new Brain Imaging Research Facility with an fMRI suite is housed in the basement of the new addition.

The plan emphasized the use of exterior courtyards and a breezeway to take advantage of the temperate climate of Santa Barbara and incorporated many sustainable principles such as natural ventilation, day-lighting, and the use of recycled materials.