As the first step of Loyola Marymount University's new campus master plan, construction is underway on a $110 million academic facility that shall serve as the cornerstone of the Frank R. Seaver College of Science and Engineering.  Known as the Life Sciences Building, the three-story structure will contain 34 teaching and research laboratories, 7,300 square feet of lab support space, 50 faculty offices, classrooms, underground parking, and a 292-seat auditorium.  The approximately 100,000 square foot project is seeking LEED Silver certification, and will utilize environmentally friendly features such as storm water retention planters, drought-tolerant plants, and a green roof.  Additionally, school officials have stated that 30% of the building's energy shall come from renewable sources.

Designed by locally-based CO Architects, the project is highlighted by its "unique and complex exterior," which calls for a surface of unitized glazing, stick-framed glazing, point-supported structural glass walls, cement and metal paneling.  Replacing a former surface parking lot, the Life Sciences Building occupies a prominent location on the eastern edge of Loyola's campus, situated in-between Foley Hall and the Burns Recreation Center.  The project, which started construction roughly one year ago, is scheduled for completion in 2015.