Science Building Renovation: Howell Hall

Back To Projects

East Carolina Univeristy

•

Greenville, North Carolina

•

54,500 SF

This rendering offers another perspective of Howell Hall's circulation and gathering spaces, showcasing the cohesive design approach throughout the building. In the foreground, a casual seating area features yellow geometric-patterned chairs and wooden round tables atop a gray area rug. The space flows into a main corridor where two students are shown - one descending the modern staircase with its distinctive white perforated metal railings and another approaching from a hallway. A large magenta accent wall with an integrated display screen anchors the space visually. Glass partitions on the right reveal additional seating areas and views to outdoor plantings. The design maintains consistent elements seen in previous images: perforated acoustic ceiling panels, warm wood columns and wall treatments, terrazzo flooring, and recessed linear lighting that enhances the contemporary academic environment.

This modern interior rendering of Howell Hall at East Carolina University showcases a thoughtfully designed collaborative space with a sophisticated color palette of magenta, gold, and natural wood tones. The open-concept area features curved magenta seating with geometric yellow fabric accents, perforated white acoustic ceiling panels, and abundant natural light flowing through glass partitions. A person stands thoughtfully at a whiteboard marked

This rendering depicts a modern circulation space in Howell Hall featuring a contemporary staircase with white perforated metal railings and black treads against a backdrop of white brick. The area incorporates built-in seating with magenta cushions integrated into wooden stepped elements, where one student sits casually. Two other students are shown navigating the space - one descending the stairs and another entering from an adjacent corridor illuminated by natural light. The design utilizes the established color palette with purple accent walls, warm wood tones, and polished terrazzo flooring. Subtle recessed lighting in the ceiling creates a bright, welcoming atmosphere in this transitional space that effectively combines circulation with informal gathering opportunities.

This rendering depicts a modern laboratory or science classroom in Howell Hall, featuring a functional and minimalist design. The space includes a white workstation with modular components and overhead shelving in the foreground, complemented by a blue adjustable lab chair. Along the right wall runs wooden cabinetry with dark countertops and open shelving above. The room is brightened by natural light from large windows and features a coffered white ceiling with suspended lighting. Dark green accent walls provide contrast to the neutral palette, while the speckled terrazzo-style flooring adds subtle visual interest. The overall design balances practical laboratory needs with contemporary academic aesthetics.

This rendering shows a spacious science laboratory in Howell Hall featuring an efficient island-based layout with multiple workstations. Each station is equipped with dark gray countertops supported by white modular bases and complemented by distinctive teal blue ergonomic lab chairs. The room benefits from abundant natural light through large clerestory windows showcasing views of trees outside. Functional elements include wooden base cabinets with sinks along the perimeter walls, white overhead shelving systems, and a coffered white ceiling. The teal and wood color scheme continues the design language seen in other areas of the building, while the light-colored flooring enhances the bright, contemporary atmosphere ideal for scientific teaching and research activities.

East Carolina University is transforming the 1969 Howell Hall Science Building South, its north/south connector, and an adjacent vacated animal lab into a modern hub for undergraduate science education. This full interior science building renovation will promote project-based active learning, support student wellness, and enhance interdepartmental collaboration, preparing students for tomorrow’s scientific challenges.

The existing building includes teaching and research labs, biology labs, support space, faculty offices, and a vacated animal lab. The renovation will also provide updated instructional and research environments aligned with 21st-century pedagogical needs.

Design services for the science building renovation include:

Developing a comprehensive building program and cost model
Planning temporary lab relocations
Construction sequencing and logistics planning
Coordination with ECU’s space planning department and user groups

The vacated animal lab below the greenhouse will be addressed for water intrusion. Likewise, the greenhouse itself will undergo a renovation for any necessary waterproofing solutions.

Phasing and logistics are critical, as the building is adjacent to an active academic facility and high-traffic pedestrian routes, including a nearby bus drop-off. The design team will carefully study site access and pedestrian circulation during planning. Ultimately, site work will address required utility and accessibility upgrades.

View other Learning projects. View other Discovery projects.

Disciplines

Architecture, Engineering, Interior Design

Project Contact

Derek West

Science Building Renovation: Howell Hall

See How We Can Help With Your Next Project.