Western Washington University - Kaiser Borsari Hall

Featuring state-of-the-art labs and experiential learning spaces, active learning classrooms, and collaboration spaces, the four-story, 55,626 SF facility was built with a mass timber structure with exposed Glulam columns and a large rooftop PV array capturing energy for the building's operations. Hands-on learning spaces were a priority, with a 'living laboratory' approach so students can study high-performance design and building science. VECA's team worked closely to coordinate solutions within the mass timber structure that would be functional yet not obstruct the beauty of the exposed timber. Scope also included MV circuit work to feed the project, located in a tightly constrained site within campus. This collaboration led to a showcase project, demonstrating the possibilities of sustainability, technology, and functionality.