The University of Cincinnati has just completed a major transformation of one of its most historic buildings. The 107-year-old Old Chemistry building, affectionately known as Old Chem, has been renovated to the tune of $190 million, now housing some of the most state-of-the-art laboratories for the study of nursing, chemistry, engineering, and biology. UC President Neville Pinto and other officials recently celebrated the building's new chapter with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, as reported by local news.
Amid the grandeur of the newly renovated structure, the Chemistry Department Head, George Stan, could barely contain his excitement to finally be able to instruct students in these advanced facilities. "We are very excited to instruct our undergraduate students in state-of-the-art laboratory facilities. These are next door to our research labs so it makes for an excellent vision of collaboration," Stan told LOCAL12 in an interview, as noted by UC News. The integration of learning and research spaces is intended to foster an environment conducive to collaborative innovation.
While modern amenities and technological advancements are the focal point, there is a dedicated effort to preserve the building's historical essence as well. Skanska USA specialists, including ceramicist Tony Kalti, meticulously dismantled and later reinstalled a century-old Rookwood fountain—a symbol so prized that UC Senior Librarian Ted Baldwin emphasized its importance: "This could not be lost," Baldwin told WCPO via UC News. By preserving this artifact, UC maintains a tangible connection to its storied past even as it steps into the future.
Further highlighting the intersection of the past and present, senior librarian Ted Baldwin co-authored a book on UC's art collection that shines the spotlight on the university's treasured Rookwood fountains and vases. Echoing the historic essence of the fountain, the building's designers have tastefully integrated its chevron patterns into the building's etched windows, Baldwin explained to WCPO.
The renovation isn't just about preserving history or constructing state-of-the-art labs; it's also about sustainability and inclusivity. Spectrum News noted that Old Chem now features stenciled glass meant to prevent bird strikes and a rooftop pollinator garden—an acknowledgment of the building's environmental impact. UC Architect Monika Watkins spoke to the broader aim of integrating the building with its environment: “And it also changes the way students experience the building and connect with what’s inside, outside and around it. We have a campus that’s hilly with a lot of challenging slopes. But we continue to improve accessibility for everyone,” she told Spectrum News via UC News. These efforts mirror UC's commitment to a more inclusive, accessible campus that takes both preservation and progress into account.
On the financial front, Ohio has shown substantial support for the project, with $70 million in bonds issued to aid in the renovation, according to the Cincinnati Business Courier. This fiscal support celebrates the 150th anniversary of UC's Department of Chemistry, while Ohio Treasurer Robert Sprague added a touch of ceremonial gravitas to the building's reopening. Reflecting on this, the University of Cincinnati ushers in a new era for Old Chem, harmoniously blending its legacy with a refreshed purpose in research and education.
