3 “On the Boards” Projects Advancing Student Wellness and Research

1. Driving Biomedical Discovery

Renovating the Interdisciplinary Science Teaching and Research Facility at the University of South Florida

A rendering of the University of South Florida ISA labs

The University of South Florida (USF) is advancing its College of Arts and Sciences with the renovation of a portion of the Interdisciplinary Science Teaching and Research Facility (ISA) on its Tampa campus.

This seven-story, 235,000 sq. ft. building is home to multiple departments, including Physics, Cell Biology, Microbiology & Molecular Biology (CMMB) and Chemistry. Our renovation focuses on expanding 20,000 sq. ft. of USF’s Biomedical Engineering Labs, providing the space and resources for continued research and growth.

A rendering of USF laboratories

Designed to emphasize “science in sight,” the labs will become a focal point within the building, showcasing leading-edge research through bright, open spaces with glass walls and natural light. Plans also call for student collaboration areas and a layout that promotes transparency and interaction with the entire university community.

In addition to the lab expansion, the project includes relocating the Campus Visitation Center to an adjacent building. This move will not only make room for the growing labs but also refresh the visitation experience for prospective students.

Envisioned to reflect the university’s aesthetic, the new visitation center will feature a modern, open layout with backlit USF logos and wall graphics throughout. Visitors will be welcomed into a spacious lobby and reception area, with easy access to a training room, workroom, and convenient break area.

The final and third phase involves moving the Florida College Access Network (FCAN) to strengthen access to education for all Floridians. Together, these projects represent a significant step forward for USF and CPL’s Science and Technology team, and further positioning the university as a leader in research.

2. A New Era of Student Well-Being

Introducing the Upcoming Wellness Center at Hollins University

An exterior rendering of Hollins University's upcoming wellness center.

Hollins University is reimagining its approach to student health with a comprehensive Wellness Center. This 20,000 sq. ft. addition—and renovation of the existing three-building athletic complex—will unify mental, physical and emotional health services into one cohesive space.

Visitors will be greeted by a modern glass façade that opens into a bright, welcoming central space. From here, students and staff will have access to fitness studios, classrooms, nooks, a pool and a range of wellness services supporting personal health and academic success.

Rendering of an upcoming student health center at Hollins University.

A standout feature is the proposed first-floor wellness suite. Modeled after a traditional clinic, it will include waiting areas, private offices and exam rooms, providing a “student health hub” space tailored to the university community’s needs.

Other notable spaces include a flexible classroom kitchen for students to prepare meals and gather for social connection, which will also serve as a venue for health-related programs and community events. Nearby, private study nooks will offer a quiet, tucked-away place for individual focus or small group collaboration.

Interior rendering of an upcoming student health center, featuring a welcoming lobby.

As part of the renovation, the century-old gym will gain an elevated walking and running track, while the 1980s-era main gym will see significant locker room upgrades, including air conditioning for improved comfort and humidity control.

The contemporary design also incorporates Hollins’ distinctive green throughout the building, ensuring the spaces stay true to the university’s identity.

With its blend of new and existing facilities, the upgraded center is poised to serve as a vital community hub and will support Hollins students in every aspect of their college experience.

3. Supporting Wellness for a Growing Campus

Renovating the Student Health Center at University of North Carolina at Charlotte

A detailed floor plan of a student health center featuring psychiatry offices, the director's suite and a Center for Wellness Promotion.

The University of North Carolina (UNC) at Charlotte is championing student wellness with a phased renovation of its 22,630 sq. ft. Joyce Davis Waddell Center for Student Health and Wellbeing.

After assessing the two-story building’s existing spaces, we identified key improvements to maximize efficiency and enhance healthcare services.

The pharmacy will be relocated to the first floor and expanded for better accessibility and growth. The updated layout will also include psychiatry offices, the director’s suite and a Center for Wellness Promotion, which will double in size to better support students in managing their health and well-being.

The second floor will house the Laboratory and Radiology suite, alongside a nurse’s clinic with additional triage stations and increased treatment bays. Centralized registration and waiting areas will be reconfigured to streamline patient flow and improve wayfinding. The support offices will also be updated to improve healthcare operations.

A detailed floor plan of a student health center featuring a Laboratory and Radiology suite, alongside a nurse’s clinic with triage stations and treatment bays.

Once complete, the revitalized Center for Student Health and Wellbeing will offer a more inviting space, designed to better serve the needs of UNC’s student population. Moreover, it will position the university as a leader in holistic well-being, attracting students with its commitment to health services and modern amenities.

EXPLORE MORE OF CPL’S HIGHER EDUCATION PROJECTS

As a Technical Principal with more than two decades of experience in both architecture and engineering, Eric is driven by his passion for design and commitment to advancing science and technology by leveraging all disciplines. His portfolio encompasses projects spanning the higher education and healthcare markets, all aimed at propelling humanity forward through discovery and progress.

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