Urbahn seized this opportunity to expand and update Richardson Hall – also designed by Urbahn in the 1970s – to complement its distinctly modernist language. The new Science Hall provides laboratories for genetics, ecology, general anatomy, physiology, plant physiology, zoology, cell biology, molecular biology, microbiology, electron microscopy, and biochemistry. While the new building relates to the Richardson Hall in terms of volume and material, it was planned and designed as an autonomous entity with its own distinctive visual vocabulary. The building occupies a prominent position along the busy pedestrian approach to the academic quadrangle from the northern residential campus and visitor parking. With its curved glass lobby, integrated artwork, and landscaped sculpture garden, Science Hall presents a welcoming rear portal to Montclair State’s academic campus.
