Situated in a truly majestic setting, the new Animal Teaching and Research Center at Utah State University’s College of Agriculture is unprecedented in terms of its design as well as function. Located north of Wellsville, UT, the 25,000 sq. ft. facility integrates programmatic functions of a meat harvesting facility, animal reproduction laboratory and veterinary clinic with classrooms to provide a hands-on learning environment.
The striking structure utilized Metl-Span insulated panels on both the roof and walls. Approximately 25,000 sq. ft. of Metl-Span CF-42 Fluted wall panels and 27,000 sq. ft. of CFR-42 roof panels were installed. The 4” panels were finished in Terra Cotta and Cool Zinc Gray.
Design for the facility was provided by Jacoby Architects, Salt Lake City. “The form of this building was completely driven by the different scales and functions of animals, teachers, researchers and students,” according to Joe Jacoby, project manager. “Due to tight budget constraints, we had to be creative with materials, technologies and building systems. For example, we integrated a pre-engineered building and Metl-Span insulated panels. That significantly reduced the amount of on-site customization and helped keep costs down. At the same time, the bold angles of the design and the contrast of the vibrant Terra Cotta color against the landscape creates a very distinctive and innovative look for this world-class agricultural teaching facility.”
Metl-Span’s all-in-one composite panels are economical and durable and provide an attractive appearance for the interior skin as well as the exterior. “By exposing and celebrating the structure, infrastructure and programmatic functions within the building, the Center presents a balance of beauty and function. It has quickly become an iconic gateway to the University for the Aggie community,” Jacoby said.
The Metl-Span panels were installed by Lundahl Building Systems, Logan, UT. The general contractor on the project was Jacobsen Construction Company, Salt Lake City.
Photographs by Joe Jacoby, Jacoby Architects