University of Maryland, Coastal Ecology Laboratory and Research Center
Location: Berlin, MD
Client: University of Maryland (Princess Anne, MD)
Architect: HLM Design
Description: General Contractor for the single-story, 11,000 sf Coastal Ecology Teaching and Research Laboratory, which is set 200 feet from the shore of the Sinepuxent River, near the bridge to Assateague Island. The facility is used for research into the unique ecosystem of the coastal setting, and enables students and faculty to explore ocean, coastal, and marine environmental science.
The wood structure is supported by a foundation system of concrete and metal pilings designed to fully stabilize the building during hurricanes and rough weather on the Chesapeake Bay.