Constructed in 1926, John T. Tate Hall was designed as part of an ensemble of buildings that define Northrop Mall, the signature central open space of the University of Minnesota campus, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The renovation of the science and teaching lab reconciles the aspirations for new science teaching programs with the rehabilitation of an important historic building on the campus. The project was a renovation and new addition, enhancing scientific interaction between faculty and students through vibrant, flexible spaces.
The program addresses the laboratory and office needs of both the School of Physics and Astronomy and the Department of Earth Sciences, featuring 29 teaching labs, 26 research labs, as well as state-of-the-art classrooms, offices, and a rooftop space for stargazing. Previously dispersed across campus, 350+ faculty, post doctorates, graduate level, and visiting researchers within the Department of Physics and Astronomy and Department of Earth Sciences are now consolidated into this space.
