Contrasting modern and historic architecture details are pictured in this view of the newly constructed Biochemical Sciences Building, at left, and the renovated Biochemistry Buildings brick exterior. Photo: Jeff Miller

The Biochemistry complex located next to Henry Mall looks a lot different than decades ago. But you wouldnt necessarily know that at first glance.

While the outside of the buildings looks similar to when they were first constructed, the interiors have been given state-of-the-art makeovers.

Theyve done a beautiful job in restoring the older parts and integrating the newer parts. I really think its remarkable, says Betty Craig, Biochemistry chair.

Planning started long ago on the $112 million project, and it had once been discussed that some of the old historical buildings would become history, torn down to make way for new structures.

A glass panel, at right, reflects a mirror view of a man descending a sunlight-filled staircase at the Biochemical Sciences Building. The graphic design featured on the exterior glass of the foyer, created by artist Norie Sato as part of Wisconsins Percent for Art program, incorporates a pattern abstracted from biochemical language that describes parts of DNA structure.

Photo: Jeff Miller

That didnt happen.

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Biochemistry complex blends old with new