University of Oregon: Klamath Hall Synthetic Chemistry and Guillemin Laboratory Renovations 

Challenge

Klamath Hall is a four-story concrete frame building with a waffle slab structure from the mid-1960s. The original chemistry labs reflected older standards, and the structural system offered limited flexibility. The University sought to modernize research space, substantially increase fume hood capacity, elevate safety, reduce energy consumption, and keep the building operational throughout construction. 

Solution

The team modernized laboratory planning and building systems while the facility remained in use. Key strategies included decoupling the renovated floor from the building’s mechanical systems and installing new rooftop supply and exhaust air handlers. Labs were organized with a contemporary planning module to improve flexibility, adaptability, and safety. Utilities were standardized, and maintenance access was prioritized. Shared equipment was consolidated in the building core, and large windows along circulation routes put science on display and improved visibility. Student writeup areas were separated from wet labs to provide clear sightlines. On the second floor, the Guillemin Lab (BSL2+) was renovated to support host microbe research with zebrafish and fruit flies, adding casework, a high-performance fume hood, chemical storage, microscopy, incubation, crystallography, a dedicated microbiology space, offices, a computer room, and 24 student workstations. 

Outcome

The renovation delivered safer, more flexible labs and improved operational efficiency, while strengthening recruitment and user experience through transparent, high visibility design. Work was completed in two phases without interrupting building operations, guided by robust stakeholder engagement and a structured decision making framework.