Lamar Bruni Science Building

Designed by Emilio Ambasz of New York, Kell Muñoz Architects completed the construction drawings and provided construction administration for this complex project.

The building provides a unique solution to the problem of building greenhouses in the hot, dry, sunbelt climate of San Antonio. Concrete walled rooms serve as containers or vessels that are placed within the earth to protect the plants from extreme temperatures. In addition, glass roof "hats" control the flow of light to the plants. The conservatory is also separated into individualized buildings linked by covered arcades and each greenhouse assumes a different character with special climate conditions and spatial shapes. This series of rooms is organized around an exterior courtyard typical of Texas vernacular architecture, but placed one story below the surrounding ground level. This arrangement creates a sense of environment that is set apart from the surrounding neighborhood.