Wanek School of Natural Sciences

The impressive academic building features a three-story, 6,000 SF planetarium and lecture space that boasts 125 seats and a 50-foot dome with 4K projection screen and state-of-the-art surround sound system. The planetarium facility teaches astronomy, earth science, anatomy and a variety of STEM lessons for HPU students, as well as elementary, middle and high school-age groups in the community.

The grandiose nature of the building challenged the team to develop creative solutions and identify areas for improvement without sacrificing excellence. The Georgian style architecture called for a 45-foot rotunda, three separate roofing systems, windows with multiple panes, grand wall sconces, a dome shaped roof, 40-foot-tall columns which are 4 feet in diameter, a large, coffered barrel vault, terrazzo flooring and high-end light fixtures. Christman's project planning experts utilized BIM to ensure the University's desires for the facility were delivered while keeping safety and costs in mind.