The Belle W. Baruch Institute for Coastal Ecology and Forest Science (BICEFS) research and education campus is set in a sensitive landscape where controlled burns are regular in the forest. Within this setting, the new research support facility is proposed for the area between the BICEFS administration building and the existing lab. This location was chosen in order to keep the campus tight, protect from fires, preserve the habitat of the endangered Red Cockaded Woodpecker, and allow for easy access between buildings. The site between the two buildings is at a low elevation point and is subject to flooding. The site also lacks a common storage area for boats and outdoor gear as well as adequate access and efficiency for dirty work functions, such as unloading and storing samples from the field.

To combat these challenges, a back-of-house road was devised to allow easy access for BICEFS scientists and their equipment, doubling as a fire barrier. Next, the proposed research support facility is lifted up, above the flood elevation, leaving only the functions below that can withstand flooding without damage. At the low elevation point, a bioswale will be created, with overflow to the wetland at the rear of the buildings. A new gear shed, will consolidate the loose storage that currently exists. All buildings are knit together with a boardwalk for easy access and connectivity across the campus. The facade screen follows a 2” rhythm of wood and fret on the glass so the birds will understand it as an object not to fly through.

The existing lab building renovations will include converting the lab spaces into work areas for graduate students and interns as well as extending the Wildlife lab and opening up drop off access to the back of the building. In the new research support building, the lower level contains utilitarian functions, whereas the upper level contains the controlled laboratories, which are brightly day lit and offer outstanding views of the remarkable setting. The ground floor of the proposed new building offers areas for carpentry, welding, and soil grinding, as well as locker and laundry rooms. On the second level, the lab spaces are arranged linearly for efficient operation with coolers located at either end of the Plant, Soil and Coliform lab, to provide easy access from any location and to keep a clear visual line for the lab manager with an office looking into the lab. Connecting between the two labs provides offices, restrooms, and a break area with a screened-in porch.

A 20’ tall lab is proposed for work on sensor towers and other future research that requires a tall space. This lab is situated away from the others because the work is noisy and allows for the sensors to easily be taken to field with a large garage door access. The roof orientation provides ideal sun exposure for roof-mounted solar panels and solar collectors. A Packaged VAV system and generator are mounted to free up ground area as well as weather sensors above the sensor lab. A planted area of the roof will support experimentation, and hands-on education. The loading dock to the back allows space to store lumber outside the carpentry shed, store kayaks, paddleboards and canoes. Outdoor experimentation can take place as well as discrete storage of hazardous materials. Locker rooms provide showers and laundry to clean up.

Planting in the front of the site, the inner courtyard, to the back of the site will mimic forest succession. This will soften the distinction between the project site and surrounding forest, which will encourage the growth of biodiversity and engagement between the built and natural on site. The façade is covered with a wood rain screen to filter light, protect from moisture, wind damage and deter birds.

The structure of the new research building utilizes advanced timber building systems for the upper volumes and treated steel columns at the base to harmonize with the tree line and resist water corrosion. The timber building strategy dovetails with BICEFS’ commitment to sustainable forestry and connects with the research of Clemson’s Wood Utilization and Design Institute, all while providing a positive example of low-carbon construction in the state of South Carolina. Interior spaces are warm with the exposed mass timber and allow for views to the inner courtyard and across from lab to lab with the central courtyard bringing evaporative cooling from the ponding water and vegetation.

Dedicated to honoring the beauty and diversity of South Carolina’s coastal landscapes, the researchers at the Belle W. Baruch Institute for Coastal Ecology and Forest Science will feel a profound connection to their natural surroundings through spaces that are at home at the forest’s edge and respect the native wildlife.