As UCSD and the San Diego region began to emerge as internationally recognized leaders in health sciences education, bio-engineering, and life sciences research, the university saw the need to renovate and significantly expand its biomedical library. The new program, plan, and design for the library’s renovation and expansion doubled the size of the existing facility, bringing together collection and staff resources with a variety of spaces for study and learning. The design intent was to complement rather than compete with Robert Evans Alexander’s landmark structure, designed in 1966. The existing roofline is matched by the wide concrete roof overhang of the new addition, while the upturned roof at the southwest corner gives the building a dramatic presence at the entry to the campus. Glowing in the evening hours, the building serves as a landmark to students and visitors alike.

This project was programmed, planned, and designed by Pfeiffer prior to joining Perkins Eastman.