Life Sciences Building, Ben Gurion University
Ada Karmi-Melamede and Dan Price

The Life Sciences Complex at the Ben-Gurion University in Beer Sheva, encompassed the Life Sciences building, the Institute for Applied Biosciences and teaching laboratories for students. Following the  masterplan for the university which the office (Ada Karmi-Melamede and Partners) designed, the building was inserted into the fabric of the campus.

 

The complex has a floor area of 14,500 m2 and built of exposed concrete in keeping with the language of the central campus buildings designed by Avraham Yaski. Beyond the exposed concrete, the building explores the use of stainless steel and glass to articulate the façades and protect the building from the intense glare of the desert. All the details, from handrails toe sunshades, are carefully designed to manipulate and enjoy the contrast between the intense light and deep shade.

 

The linear courtyard with its iconic water canal and basin, formally ties the complex together while creating a tranquil, protected Commons for students, staff and visitors alike.

 

STATUS: Completed
SITE: Beer Sheva, Israel

SIZE: 14,500 m²

CLIENT: Ben Gurion University of the Negev

Design: Ada Karmi-Melamede and Dan Price

Project architect: David Robins