A Gateway to the Sciences
An inspired renovation and expansion redefine a campus landmark and support the future of science education.
Drake Hall
Newark, DE
The University of Delaware’s Chemistry and Biochemistry Department is recognized for its innovative, interdisciplinary approach to science education and research. Situated along a continuous chain of academic buildings connecting The Green to the eastern edge of campus, the department serves as a hub for undergraduate learning and discovery.
To remain competitive and meet the demands of a rapidly evolving scientific field, the University identified a need to modernize and expand its facilities, enhancing both the student experience and the department’s research capabilities. Drake Hall, a 1971 building defined by bold brick piers and a heavy façade, was selected as the anchor point for this transformation.
EwingCole’s solution involved a comprehensive renovation and expansion, reimagining Drake Hall as a new gateway to the sciences on UDel’s campus. A new below-grade entrance, accentuated by the relocation of the building’s signature white cornice, draws visitors into a landscaped sunken plaza with integrated ramp and stair access. The new addition blends seamlessly with the existing structure, featuring expansive brick surfaces punctuated by curtainwall glazing and floor-to-ceiling windows that fill interior spaces with natural light. Inside, open and flexible layouts support state-of-the-art laboratories, modern classrooms, and collaborative workspaces.
This design-forward strategy preserves the architectural language of the historic campus and creates a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly corridor linking The Green to the east campus.
As a result, the revitalized Drake Hall positions the University of Delaware as a leader in science education, delivering a facility that balances tradition with innovation and empowers the next generation of chemists and biochemists.
