STARBASE Learning Facility
Launching a New Era of Education
LHB spearheaded a transformative building renovation for STARBASE, a nonprofit organization offering unique STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) programming for students in grades four through six. The innovative project involved reconfiguring an existing facility to incorporate essential classrooms, offices, restrooms, and storage areas. The redesigned space features six spacious classrooms and an assembly area, supporting the school’s technology infrastructure and providing students with the tools and resources needed to thrive in an ever-evolving field.
In alignment with sustainability goals, the project utilized materials with recycled content and incorporated energy-efficient features, such as dimmable lighting in classrooms to support focused work on unique projects. STARBASE is partly funded by the Department of Defense and sponsored by the Minnesota Air National Guard.
Designed to Inspire
To meet the program’s layout needs, six classrooms — four linear and two square — now provide ample room for science activities. The thoughtful design includes movable computer pods that students can easily push aside for special projects, such as building robotic rovers. Additionally, an open-office area for teachers, located just outside the classrooms, enhances accessibility and collaboration.
Custom Solutions
The building was redesigned to create the necessary learning spaces, administration work areas, restrooms and storage areas while upgrading HVAC, controls, electrical, and power systems to seamlessly support the program’s needs.
Eco-Friendly Innovation
The renovation earned LEED Silver Certification through sustainable design strategies, including building reuse, installing a white roof to reduce the heat island effect, energy-efficient systems, and improving indoor air quality by choosing materials with low to no VOCs.
