Cedar Street Building C at the University of Georgia stands as a testament to the university's commitment to pushing the boundaries of biological and agricultural sciences. Located on the historic Science and Ag Hill in Athens, this facility recently underwent a massive $47 million renovation that completely reimagined its interior while preserving its iconic mid-century modern exterior. Formerly known simply as the Chemistry Building, the newly minted Cedar Street Building C has transitioned from a specialized 1960s laboratory into a flexible, interdisciplinary hub designed to foster collaboration between some of the most critical scientific departments on campus.

The completion of this project in late 2024 marks the conclusion of Phase I of a multi-year capital plan to modernize research and innovation infrastructure at UGA. By breathing new life into a structure that helped the university achieve its R1 research status decades ago, the institution is ensuring that its physical facilities match the caliber of the world-class research conducted within its walls.

The Historical Significance of the Former Chemistry Building

To understand the impact of Cedar Street Building C, one must look back to 1960. This was an era of intense scientific competition and national investment in STEM education, often referred to as the Space Race era. The original Chemistry Building was part of a visionary collection of six structures known as the Science Center. At the time, this complex was revolutionary, providing the specialized space needed to attract elite faculty and secure the high-level research funding that eventually classified UGA as a "Very High Research Activity" (R1) institution.

For over 60 years, the building served as the primary home for chemical education and research. However, as science evolved, the requirements for laboratory environments changed dramatically. Modern research requires advanced air filtration, high-capacity electrical systems for specialized equipment, and open-plan spaces that encourage cross-departmental dialogue. By the early 21st century, the aging infrastructure of the original Chemistry Building was struggling to meet these needs, prompting the university to initiate the Science and Ag Hill modernization project.

Engineering Challenges and the Concept of Building a Ship in a Bottle

The renovation of Cedar Street Building C was not a simple cosmetic facelift. It was an ambitious structural overhaul led by the design firm Cooper Carry. One of the most significant challenges faced by the engineering team was the original building's dimensions. In the 1960s, a floor-to-floor height of 11 feet was standard for academic buildings. However, a state-of-the-art modern laboratory typically requires a 15-foot height to accommodate the massive ductwork, piping, and electrical conduits necessary for high-intensity research.

The design team frequently described the project as "building a ship in a bottle." They were tasked with squeezing complex, modern lab infrastructure into a rigid, vertically constrained shell. The solution lay in a combination of creative architectural planning and the implementation of advanced HVAC technology.

Instead of traditional massive air ducts that would have lowered ceilings to an oppressive level, engineers installed a chilled beam HVAC system. This technology utilizes water rather than air to transport energy throughout the building. Because water pipes are significantly smaller than air ducts, the team was able to maintain comfortable ceiling heights while significantly improving energy efficiency. This choice not only solved the spatial problem but also positioned the building as a model for sustainable campus renovation.

Sustainability and Preserving the Mid Century Aesthetic

A primary goal of the renovation was to prove that aging research buildings can be sustainably modernized rather than demolished. The University of Georgia took a bold stance by opting for a deep-energy retrofit that reused 77% of the existing building’s structure and enclosure. According to an embodied carbon analysis, this decision conserved enough carbon to be equivalent to taking more than 1,000 cars off the road for an entire year.

Architecturally, the project was a delicate balancing act. The exterior brick veneer was meticulously repaired, and the original windows were either restored or replaced with high-performance, energy-efficient units that matched the original aesthetic. Inside, the design team sought to honor the building’s mid-century roots by reintroducing elements that had been lost over decades of minor repairs.

The interior now features custom-fabricated faux breeze blocks and perforated wood elements that add acoustic warmth to the sleek laboratory environments. Polished concrete floors were chosen over traditional vinyl tile to reduce the environmental footprint and ensure long-term durability. This commitment to "sustainable rehabilitation" was so successful that the project received an Excellence in Sustainable Rehabilitation award from the Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation.

What Departments Are Located in Cedar Street Building C

The reimagined facility is no longer dedicated to a single discipline. Instead, it serves as an interdisciplinary nexus for three of UGA's powerhouse departments. This strategic clustering is designed to break down academic silos and spark new insights at the intersection of various life science fields.

The Department of Entomology

Housed within the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, the Department of Entomology occupies significant space in Building C. The new facility provides these researchers with specialized insect containment labs that feature precise climate controls and high-security exhaust systems. These spaces are vital for studying pest management, disease transmission, and the ecological impact of insects on Georgia’s massive agricultural industry.

The Department of Microbiology

As part of the Franklin College of Arts and Sciences, the microbiology labs in Building C are equipped for high-level study of microscopic organisms. The open-plan lab layout allows faculty and graduate students to share equipment and insights more freely than in the old, partitioned labs of the previous century.

The Department of Cellular Biology

Also part of the Franklin College, this department focuses on the fundamental processes of life. The proximity to microbiology and entomology colleagues fosters a collaborative environment for researchers investigating cellular mechanisms that could lead to breakthroughs in medicine and biotechnology.

Specialized Research Facilities and Lab Features

Building C is more than just office space and benches; it is a highly specialized tool for scientific discovery. Every floor is designed with a uniform framework that allows labs to be reconfigured as research needs change or as new funding becomes available.

  • Microscopy Suites: The building features vibration-controlled rooms specifically designed for high-resolution imaging equipment. These suites are essential for cellular biologists and entomologists who require precision at the nanometer scale.
  • Insect Containment Facilities: These are among the most advanced on campus, allowing for the safe study of diverse insect populations under controlled conditions without risk of escape or cross-contamination.
  • Walk-in Environmental Chambers: Researchers can simulate specific global climates, from tropical humidity to arid conditions, allowing for rigorous testing of how biological entities respond to environmental stressors.
  • Plant Growth Spaces: Integrated areas allow for the cultivation of flora necessary for entomological research, ensuring that all components of a biological system can be studied under one roof.
  • Soft Collaboration Zones: Scattered throughout the corridors are "soft spaces"—informal meeting areas with whiteboards and comfortable seating designed to encourage spontaneous brainstorming sessions between researchers from different departments.

Services of the UGA Scientific Stockroom at 140 Cedar Street

One of the most vital resources within the building is the UGA Scientific Stockroom – Cedar Street. Located at the 140 Cedar Street entrance, this facility serves as a critical supply chain link for the entire university research community. Unlike some specialized campus resources that are restricted to specific staff, this stockroom is accessible to students and faculty across various disciplines.

The stockroom provides an extensive inventory of in-stock scientific supplies, which eliminates the need for labs to wait for shipping on essential items. Available supplies include:

  • Laboratory Glassware: A wide range of beakers, flasks, and specialized glass equipment.
  • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Gloves, lab coats, and safety goggles required for hazardous research.
  • Research Chemicals and Solvents: Commonly used chemicals available for immediate pickup.
  • Emergency Refills: The facility offers liquid nitrogen refills and dry ice, which are essential for maintaining cold chains and preserving biological samples.

For students conducting independent research or working in faculty labs, having a centrally located stockroom with immediate access to these materials is a significant advantage that accelerates the pace of discovery.

The Future of Science and Ag Hill at UGA

The renovation of Cedar Street Building C is just the beginning. It serves as Phase I of a broader vision to transform the South Campus. As part of this modernization plan, other aging structures—such as the Biology Building—are slated for similar high-tech overhauls.

The university’s "Science and Ag Hill" is being reshaped into a cohesive district where the boundaries between colleges are blurred. By moving academic instruction to the nearby Science Center and dedicating buildings like Cedar Street Building C exclusively to research, UGA is streamlining its operations. This allows researchers to focus entirely on their work in specialized environments, while students benefit from modern classrooms nearby.

This strategic investment is part of a larger $100 million commitment (including state and private support) to elevate UGA's role in global health, agriculture, and life sciences. The facilities in Building C specifically support research into infectious diseases, informatics, and sustainable food systems, addressing some of the most pressing challenges of the 21st century.

Summary of the Transformation

The journey of Cedar Street Building C from a 1960s Chemistry Building to a 21st-century interdisciplinary research hub is a blueprint for how modern universities can evolve. It respects the historical architecture of the past while integrating the high-tech, sustainable infrastructure required for the future. With its state-of-the-art labs, specialized containment facilities, and the essential services of the scientific stockroom, it provides the University of Georgia with a competitive edge in the global research landscape.

For the students and faculty in Entomology, Microbiology, and Cellular Biology, the building is more than just a place of work; it is a collaborative environment where the next major scientific breakthrough is currently being pursued.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the exact address of UGA Cedar Street Building C?

The building is located at 140 Cedar Street, Athens, GA 30602. It is situated on the South Campus area known as Science and Ag Hill, south of Sanford Stadium.

Can students buy supplies from the 140 Cedar Street stockroom?

Yes, the UGA Scientific Stockroom at this location is accessible to students, faculty, and research labs. It provides a variety of essential scientific supplies, including PPE, chemicals, and glassware.

What was Building C called before the renovation?

Before the recent renovation and renaming, the facility was known as the Chemistry Building. It was originally constructed in 1960 as part of the university's Science Center complex.

Which academic departments are located in Building C?

The building primarily houses the Department of Entomology (College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences) and the departments of Microbiology and Cellular Biology (Franklin College of Arts and Sciences).

Does Building C have classrooms?

Following the renovation, the purpose of Cedar Street Building C has been narrowed to focus primarily on research and support spaces. Most academic instruction and traditional classroom activities for these departments take place in the nearby Science Center and other surrounding academic buildings.