This building project is the replacement and redesign of a laboratory and classroom building that burned to the ground in late 2010 on the Virginia Institute of Marine Science’s Eastern Shore campus in Wachapreague, VA.  Redesigning and replacing Seaside Hall is a unique opportunity for VIA design as it is located across the street from the Eastern Shore Seawater Lab we also designed.  With this project, VIA has established a cohesive and thoughtful campus architectural language for the future expansions and additions pending on campus.

Its form, materiality and simple character is Inspired by the town’s visitor center just 2 blocks away along the same street frontage of Atlantic Avenue.  The new gable roofed outdoor screened classroom space is the front of the building and is on the centerline axis of this tiny visitor center.  This direct visual cue provides connection and a seamless transition from town to campus.  Interior spaces include an entry foyer with specimen display cases, a teaching lab, analytical lab, a library/conference/classroom, restroom facilities, and a small galley. It is elevated out of the flood plain on wood piers for permanent flood proof construction, is fully wheelchair accessible without an elevator and blends with the aesthetic of the seaside coastal community.