California State University Stanislaus

Naraghi Hall of Science

Turlock, California

Strategically sited at the southern edge of campus, Naraghi Hall acts as an entry portal to the main campus. To the north, it creates a community of science with the nearby Bio-Ag Center framing Willow Lake, a retention pond used as a joint outdoor laboratory and field study site. The L-shaped building is organized in two wings linked by a three-level entry atrium. The south wing houses wet and dry laboratories and classrooms for the departments of physics, astronomy, biology, chemistry and geology. Modular labs offer flexibility and adaptability for changes in program and pedagogy. Wide corridors, with informal group seating, double as informal study and collaboration space. The north wing has 58 faculty and department offices, meeting rooms and a student/faculty study area. An observatory tower incorporates meeting rooms and display areas for students and the general public. Naraghi Hall is a model of sustainable design for laboratories exceeding the California energy code by 24.8 percent. The building's metal exterior is manufactured from recycled materials, landscaping is drought-resistant and many water-saving strategies have been implemented.