New Physics Building and Osmond Laboratory Renovations

The Pennsylvania State University selected ZGF Architects LLP to provide full architectural design services for a new 105,000‑gross‑square‑foot physics building and a 47,000‑gross‑square‑foot renovation of the east wing of Osmond Laboratory on the University Park campus. The project, funded through the university’s 2018‑2023 Five‑Year Capital Plan, has a total anticipated cost of $146 million and includes specialized vibration‑sensitive research labs, a 350‑seat lecture hall, demolition of an existing lecture‑hall wing, a subsurface storm‑water detention facility, and LEED‑certified sustainable design requirements. Procurement proceeded through a qualifications‑based process (LOI, long‑list, short‑list, interviews) culminating in the Board of Trustees’ selection on November 15 2019. The architect will work under a Construction‑Manager‑as‑Agent delivery method, coordinating with multiple prime contractors and a construction manager appointed by the state’s Department of General Services. • Scope: New freestanding physics building, renovation of Osmond Lab east wing, demolition, storm‑water facility, high‑bay lab, LEED‑level sustainable design. • Procurement: Open competitive qualification‑based selection; three firms shortlisted (HDR, Wilson HGA, ZGF) with final award to ZGF. • Funding & Delivery: $146 M total project cost; CM‑as‑Agent with multiple‑prime contracting; design services under PSU’s standard 1‑P agreement.