Vanderbilt University Plans Interdisciplinary Science Building

Vanderbilt University is planning to construct an interdisciplinary science facility on the site of the former Stevenson Center 6 building in Nashville, Tenn. The 210,000-sf structure will house faculty from the College of Arts and Science, the School of Engineering, and the School of Medicine Basic Sciences, while enabling a stronger connection with the College of Connected Computing. Offering two levels below grade and a mechanical penthouse, the 10-story development aims to catalyze radical collaboration that will accelerate breakthrough discoveries with real-world impact in diverse fields such as clinical therapeutics, energy resilience, and quantum and AI-enabled technologies. 

Designed by DLR Group, Hopkins Architects, and Centric Architecture, the future-facing hub will feature sophisticated wet laboratories, core labs, offices, and conference venues. An open and flexible ground floor will encourage intellectual exchange, complemented by breakout areas, seminar environments, and huddle rooms. A 50-person auditorium will accommodate lectures, symposia, and community events. Other multipurpose zones will be augmented by support spaces, a café, and outdoor terraces.

Supported by a $25 million donation, this beacon for scientific discovery will be home to approximately 50 principal investigators conducting research in a range of disciplines, including chemical biology, bioengineering, bioanalytics, biochemistry, biophysics, biosynthesis, nanophotonics, and quantum computing. The sustainable and adaptable facility will leverage a high-performance, double-skin façade that balances thermal control and access to daylight while maximizing transparency. Strategic interior design choices and biophilic elements will promote occupant wellbeing.

JE Dunn Construction will serve as general contractor. The project team also includes Affiliated Engineers, Inc. (AEI), Thornton Tomasetti, Barge Civil Associates, Casella Interiors, and Hawkins Partners. Groundbreaking is expected in summer of 2026 with completion following near the end of 2028.