Tashjian Bee and Pollinator Discovery Center

A mix of dimension lumber, glulam, LVL and structural insulated panels, this 7,860-sf, Type VB project at the University of Minnesota includes exhibit space, a learning lab, and demonstration workspace for honey extraction. As the honeybee structures its comb in the economical, close-packed form of the hexagon, a single-point perspective view of the repeating wood-frame structure is transformed into a warm wood hexagon in the reflection of light on the floor. Among the project highlights, integration of modern technology with passive design resulted in a structure that requires 70% less energy than comparable buildings. The use of wood was critical to realizing the project’s design and performance goals. In the project’s cold climate, a robust and well-insulated envelope is paramount. The team chose panels that combine wood studs and polyurethane insulation. Thermal bridging and air infiltration were minimized by the inherent thermal resistance of wood, with continuous insulation, and through the use of exterior plywood sheathing. Estimated construction cost: $423/sf