University of Cincinnati Reopens Renovated Old Chemistry Building

The University of Cincinnati has officially reopened the historic Old Chemistry building—affectionately known as “Old Chem”—following a transformative $190 million renovation and expansion. BHDP Architecture is proud to have served as the architect of record for this ambitious project, which reflects UC’s vision to elevate learning, research, and collaboration across its growing campus.

The renewed facility now totals 207,000 SF and serves three colleges: the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Engineering and Applied Science, and the James L. Winkle College of Pharmacy. The building features advanced instructional and research spaces, including anatomy and physiology teaching labs, chemistry labs, engineering and interdisciplinary teaching labs, private research offices, and core lab facilities for the entire university.

At the heart of the building is a bright and expansive 10,000-SF atrium designed to foster connectivity, collaboration, and a sense of community. The space also honors the university’s history through the display of lab artifacts from the Department of Chemistry’s Oesper Collections and the restored Rookwood Pottery Co. fountain, originally gifted by the class of 1921.

Delivered early and within budget, the project is on track to achieve LEED Gold certification. The successful outcome reflects the strength of collaboration between UC, BHDP, Skanska, THP Limited, and Prater Engineering, and reinforces the university’s long-term commitment to excellence in education, research, and sustainability.

“This project was as much about preserving legacy as it was about designing for the future,” said Jessica Schmidt, Senior Architect at BHDP. “We’re incredibly proud to have helped UC create a space that bridges generations of learning while empowering the next wave of discovery.”

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