Hosting one of the top ten best plant science programs in the country, the North Carolina State University Plant Science Building (PSB) is an exciting new 185,000-square-foot cutting edge facility in Raleigh.

Earning recognition with a 2023 Metal Construction Association Design Award in the metal composite category, the application of metal building systems in the research facility extends way beyond the high performing metal cladding. Metal sunshades, metal ceilings, exposed structural steel and metal greenhouse framing also boost performance, energy efficiencies and aesthetics for the LEED Gold building.

For this interdisciplinary science hub where students, researchers, professors and corporate agricultural partners study, collaborate and work to advance the state of the industry, Flad Architects was tasked with designing a building befitting of these cutting-edge developments.

“The design strategy [for PSB] was developed around integrated system engineering addressing unique aspects of laboratory innovation to reduce energy use and the specification of sustainable materials for construction and finishes,” relates Chuck Mummert AIA, LEED AP BD+D, principal, Flad Architects, Raleigh.