Located on a 304-acre hillside overlooking the city of San Marcos, the California State University San Marcos (CSUSM) has far exceeded growth projections with current enrollment of over 17,000 students. In particular, the College of Science and Mathematics (CSM) has experienced growth exceeding expectations. Prompted by existing space constraints and deficits, a need to provide space for a new engineering department, and accommodate future college growth, the University engaged BNIM to develop a feasibility study for a new 110,000 GSF academic building.

BNIM, in collaboration with RFD, developed a program and Zero Net Energy concept design for the College of Science and Mathematics, comprised of the physics, computer science, software engineering, and electrical engineering departments. Primarily composed of teaching and research laboratories, classrooms, student spaces, and faculty and staff office spaces, the Integrated Sciences and Engineering Building will be the first phase in the design and construction of a series of projects that will support the growth of CSM.

Collectively, the design team set out to imagine the future of CSM, and the impact this could have on the greater CSUSM community. A series of workshops, interviews, and interactive presentations were held to gain feedback which directly informed recommendations for the project. The future College of Science and Mathematics Academic Building will be designed to raise the profile, exposure, and visibility of CSU San Marcos; strengthen partnerships with local industries; support innovative learning and research on campus; and allow for a collaborative, interdisciplinary, & professional culture.