HB Fuller Willow Lake Research Laboratory
Vadnais Heights, MinnesotaHGA was challenged to create a master plan for a 170 acre site and to design a building that conserves energy while optimizing working efficiency for a major corporate research facility. To conserve energy, HGA designed the H.B. Fuller building into a south-facing hillside. The exterior design is not the only effort made for heat conservation. The building has other amenities such as: well water cooling, passive solar heat, direct digital heat control, and insulated skylights to name a few. All combined effort helps the H.B. Fuller Company to save 65 percent of the energy needed. Inside, the reception area overlooks a three-story atrim filled with natural light. Below the reception area are two additional focal points: the library and, on the lower level, the cafeteria. Open office spaces are divided by low partitions which maximize employees' exposure to daylight and views of the wildlife preserve. Laboratory zones are designed for flexibility in responding to specific scientific research requirements.