A simulation of a building designed with a mix of dark material and light natural material, a large walkway entry, and landscaping. The building says

A simulation of the front of a building and the associated parking lot in an agricultural setting. The building says

A simulation of a large building with courtyard and parking lot in an agricultural setting.

A simulation of a building driveway with overhang for vehicles. A van is parked under the overhang. The building is a mix of dark materials and light, wood-colored materials.

A simulation of an overhang/canopy around the perimeter of a building with people walking underneath it.

A simulation of a large building and greenhouse in an agricultural setting.

South Carolina State University – Animal Research & Extension Center

Supporting the Evolution of SCSU’s Animal Science Programs

The Animal Research & Extension Center at South Carolina State University (SCSU) in Olar, South Carolina, will be an academic and research building designed to support interdisciplinary teaching, applied research, and hands-on training in animal sciences, veterinary technologies, agriculture, and related life science programs. The facility integrates classrooms, advanced research laboratories, simulation environments, and species-specific animal housing to create a comprehensive educational setting aligned with contemporary research and industry practices.

As the Architect of Record, LaBella worked with the University to organize the new 35,000-square-foot facility into clearly defined academic, research, and animal care zones. The building prioritizes biosecurity, animal welfare, and operational efficiency through controlled circulation and carefully planned adjacencies. State-of-the-art laboratories support physiology, genetics, nutrition, reproduction, and analytical research, while large animal and poultry facilities—including barns, holding, quarantine, imaging, and procedure spaces—enable real-world, applied learning and research. Faculty offices, graduate workspaces, study rooms, and collaborative areas are distributed throughout the building to enhance visibility, interaction, and student engagement.

Designed to meet Green Building Initiative Green Globes^® certification, the Animal Research & Extension Center will provide flexible, future-ready infrastructure that elevates the institution’s agricultural and animal science programs while supporting safe, efficient, and humane operations.