Designed by Seattle-based LMN Architects, the new 82,476-square-foot Plant Sciences Building at Washington State University brings previously separated fields of study into a single facility, inserting itself as the latest addition to the university's growing Research and Education Complex (REC). At four-stories, the new structure is the third of six buildings to be built in the REC, which was also masterplanned by LMN.

The Plant Sciences Building will create a new entry for the complex capped by a courtyard for events and daily activities. A high-performance precast concrete facade panel system treated with a sculpted red brick veneer surface has been employed along the building's exterior. Each panel incorporates structure, insulation, weather barrier, interior, and exterior finishes within a single prefabricated whole. This approach accelerates the construction process.

"The Plant Sciences Building represents a major investment in Washington State’s commitment to sustainable agriculture and ecological stewardship," said LMNPartner Stephen Van Dyck, AIA in a statement. "Through our planning and design collaboration with Washington State University, we’ve envisioned a new state-of-the-art research facility that will both foster innovation in this critical sector and nurture a collaborative culture within the research campus."

The new building is expected to be complete this year.