Pacific Lutheran University
Morken Center for Learning
and Technology, Tacoma

Services: Structural and Civil
Square Feet: 57,000
Construction Cost: $11,500,000
Completion: 2006
Base Materials: Steel
Client: Zimmer Gunsul Frasca Architects LLP

Upon entering the school's 30-foot tall lobby and atrium, students and faculty are greeted by an impressive main staircase constructed of steel. The atrium and lobby link the building's two wings and serve as a communal area. The LEED Gold building's numerous sustainable features include recycled steel framing, ground-source heat pumps, and low-energy glass.