Point Loma Nazarene University on Friday dedicated a state-of-the art science complex that is also an innovative architectural statement with a cathedral-like ambiance.
The innovative design, marked by a curved stainless-steel environmental screen and a prominent site overlooking the Pacific Ocean, will be home to the university’s rapidly growing and acclaimed interdisciplinary science program. The program seeks to unify Christian values with a broad curriculum and state-of-the-art technology, laboratories and classrooms.
“Through the long arc of a perforated stainless-steel wall, the building subtly consecrates its Christian foundations in a salient design feature,” said architect Ray Varela, who led the project for San Diego-based Carrier Johnson + CULTURE. “This unique screen filters sun and shade into the common area in a subtle echo of the qualities one finds in a cathedral space.”
Nearly forty percent of the university’s students major in a science-related discipline, and all are required to complete a laboratory science course during their education.
“Every student at PLNU will benefit from this investment” said Dr. Sara Choung, chair of the chemistry department. “This much-needed facility better reflects the quality of the faculty, students and alumni who have stretched PLNU’s science program in remarkable directions.”
University President Bob Brower said the 36,000-square-foot facility “will enable the science program to reach new heights and support the continued success of our PLNU science faculty and students.”
Point Loma Nazarene is a selective Christian liberal arts institution that serves more than 3,500 students.
