University of Houston Science Teaching Lab

This 105,000-square-foot teaching laboratory addition for the University of Houston’s chemistry and biology studies program includes an additional 24,000 square feet of shell space for future research use.

Instructional labs accommodate 24 students, with eight student workstations at each three-lab bench. This configuration enables students to work effectively either individually or in groups of two or four, depending on their assignments. The aspect ratio of PGAL’s lab design gives all 24 students clear site lines to the instructor’s demo bench, whiteboard, and projection screen, optimizing faculty communication and pre-lab instruction.

Chemistry labs are equipped with fume hoods, instrumentation benches, and locked drawers for personal lab supplies. Biology labs are set up at sit-down height for work with microscopes. Lab service areas are positioned to provide logistical support, enabling technicians to quickly prep each lab for the next section and maintain high utilization rates.

The design includes combination safety shower/eyewashes, adequate aisle widths, adequate workspace at the bench and in fume hoods, and appropriate storage for all types of chemicals and instrumentation.

PGAL also provided full civil engineering services, including site grading, utilities and drainage design, underground detention systems, and ADA connectivity to the larger campus.