University of Minnesota-Morris, Biomass Research and Demonstration Facility
Morris, MinnesotaThe Biomass Research and Demonstration Facility addition to an existing energy plant represents the university's first foray into sustainable-fuel sourcing, in which corn stalk (stover) is converted to syngas to produce clean energy for heating and cooling. The addition maintains the architectural integrity of the original 1970 building while establishing its own aesthetic vocabulary. A simple cube clad in cedar contrasts with the angular, brick-clad original with sloping roof. The sustainable cedar appropriately reflects the agrarian context and historic campus architecture while specifically recalling the striking wood ceiling of the original structure. Much of the mechanical infrastructure is visible through metal screening and wood slats to emphasize the facility's double role as an energy plant and demonstration facility in renewable-energy resources. - AIA Minnesota Awards Jury
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"It was one of those projects that completely embodied its function. This is a simple, thoughtful piece of architecture with incredible details. We just loved it."