University of Maryland Dedicates New Chemistry Building

The bold aspirations of the University of Maryland’s Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry were realized at a recent dedication ceremony for its newest building. With a desire to become one of the top chemistry/biochemistry programs in the nation, The University and Department chose Ballinger to “catalyze their new era” by replacing an obsolete building with a new six-floor, 105,000 SF building connected and fully integrated into the existing Chemistry Complex. Flexibile and adaptable planning with a robust infrastructure will enable the new building to accommodate a wide range of chemistry, biochemistry, and quantum science research for generations to come in a dynamic environment of research labs, lab support, conference rooms, offices, and collaboration spaces.

As lead designer, Ballinger Senior Principal and University of Maryland alumnus Craig S. Spangler, FAIA attended the ceremony and was honored to design a building that will inspire future innovators at his alma mater. He collaborated with the department to realize their aspirational, interdisciplinary vision with an open and naturally lit environment that is complemented with a series of community engagement spaces. “The Great Hall, inspired by chemistry fractal geometry, serves as an iconic space both internally and externally and provides a unique, intimate environment for engagement and discourse,” Craig said. In its inaugural period, the Great Hall will host two Nobel-winning laureates this month.

For over 25 years, Ballinger has partnered with the University of Maryland, designing several significant projects on the College Park campus. Ballinger provided architecture and engineering services for the new Chemistry Building, which was delivered through a design-build process in collaboration with Whiting-Turner.