WSU Pullman selects design-build team for new Integrated Science Building

The College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) has launched the planning process for the new Integrated Science Building (ISB) to provide progressive spaces for hands-on STEM learning labs in line with its core teaching mission.

The Portland, Oregon-based Hoffman Construction Company has been selected as the design-build team for the new state-of-the-art facility, which will enable CAS to better serve and support all aspects of WSU's science-based student-facing mission. With projections to serve 6,000 students annually, the building will position WSU to address critical STEM workforce needs for Washington state, attract and retain students and faculty, and continue to provide a competitive, world-class education.

"The Integrated Science Building reflects our forward momentum as a modern land-grant university that equips students with knowledge and with the tools to lead in a rapidly evolving world," said Washington State University President Elizabeth Cantwell. "This is more than a building. It's a commitment to hands-on discovery, educational access, and the future of STEM in Washington."

Following approval from the WSU Board of Regents and the state, WSU launched requests for qualifications and proposals for the $25 million project to tear down Heald Hall and design the future ISB. Heald Hall (1962) cannot be retrofitted to meet modern science laboratory and instructional requirements. This marks the starting point for the ISB, which will be the cornerstone of a bold vision to revitalize the science corridor on the Pullman campus. Demolition is planned to begin in early 2026 followed by site prep for the new building through June 2027.

Current plans call for a minimum of three floors, marking the foundation of a strategic vision to create modern spaces for hands-on learning, teaching innovation, and student support. To fully realize the potential of this project, WSU is seeking philanthropic and industry partners who share its commitment to advancing STEM education and innovation.

"Every WSU student engages with the College of Arts and Sciences at some point in their academic journey, making the ISB a vital resource in preparing future graduates to meet the needs of Washington's workforce," said Chris Riley-Tillman, provost and executive vice president. "WSU is uniquely positioned to lead in technologically advanced learning environments, and the ISB represents a significant step forward."

Hoffman has previously partnered on WSU projects, such as the WSU Martin Stadium renovation project and the 40,000-square-foot WSU Tri-Cities Collaboration Hall project that received a 2022 National Design-Build Merit Award, Educational Facilities from Design-Build Institute of America. Other projects include the WSU Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art in Pullman and the WSU Engineering and Computer Science Building in Vancouver, WSU Washington Grains Plant Growth Facility in Pullman, and Washington State University Everett for a LEED Gold Teaching and Research Building.

"We're excited about the impact this building will have for the university. Giving our students modern science spaces positions WSU to meet current and future educational needs while opening the doors to possibilities of scientific discovery and global influence," said Dean Courtney Meehan, College of Arts and Sciences.