J. Walter Wilson

The J. Walter Wilson Laboratory at Brown University, dedicated on October 5th of 1962, came as a much-needed addition to the campus.  Supplying over 40,000 sf of research and instructional space (and an extra 10,000 sf in 1983 with the Sol Koffler wing), the building greatly supplemented Brown’s existing science facilities. The constant use of the facilities had unfortunately worn the structure down, and the combination of required university-wide utility work and a new life sciences building brought about the closing of the serviceable but largely opaque structure.
Returning the centrally-located structure to full and improved functionality, this time as a student services center with mailroom facilities, required a multi-faceted approach. Highlighted goals for revival of the laboratory included the improvement of building legibility and sense of place, activation of the streetscape to draw in students, and unification of the main building and addition with a nearby affiliated structure, the Faunce House Student Center.
Most notable of the improvements is the new 60’ glass entry tower, opening up the previously darkened corridors and creating well-lit, inviting spaces. The finished building currently houses eleven disparate university departments, including student mail services, registrar, financial aid, and twelve classrooms.