Lost in a maze? That’s a common feeling inside the Behavioral Sciences Building. The Behavioral Sciences Building is also known as BSB. It is one of the most confusing places on campus. We are standing before a unique structure. It embodies a fascinating approach to architectural design.
The Behavioral Sciences Building resulted from the vision of architect Walter Netsch. He was with Skidmore, Owings & Merrill. Netsch shaped the University of Illinois campus on Chicago’s Near West Side. The campus benefited from public transportation. It also benefited from surrounding neighborhoods. The Behavioral Sciences Building was created eight years after the original master plan.
Netsch’s design is based on his “Field Theory”. This theory involves rotating squares into complex geometric elements. These elements radiate outward from central cores. Netsch considered the Behavioral Sciences Building his most sophisticated “Field Theory” design.
Inside the Behavioral Sciences Building, offices, classrooms, and a large cafeteria intertwine. These spaces create a geometrically complex mass. It feels organic. It grows from the rotation of overlapping squares. Navigating the interior can be a challenge. Unexpected spaces appear at key moments. Striking multi-story spaces are defined by massive concrete sculptural staircases.
The Behavioral Sciences Building provides various environments for study and learning. Inside are offices and laboratories. These serve the departments of sociology, psychology, anthropology, geography, and urban studies. You’ll also find conference rooms and a 700-seat cafeteria. Informal meeting spaces are also located here.
The main access is via a pedestrian bridge. The bridge connects to the central campus walkway system. Its octagonal staircases can be disorienting. Some windowless classrooms and corridors seem to lead nowhere. Some visitors compare the spaces to the drawings of M.C. Escher.
The structure is mainly poured-in-place concrete. Most of the walls were built with brick. The floors are mostly Minnesota granite. The windows are made with metal frames.
The Behavioral Sciences Building houses the Disability Cultural Center and the Gender and Sexuality Center. The Gender and Sexuality Center is the oldest LGBTQIA+ college center in Chicago. The Disability Cultural Center is the first of its kind in Chicago. It is one of the only university centers focused on disability culture in the country.
The first floor features food eateries. Au Bon Pain Cafe and the Morgan Street Market provide options for students. They can take a break between classes and studying.
The Behavioral Sciences Building stands as a testament to Walter Netsch’s innovative approach to architecture. Its confusing layout and unique spaces make it a memorable landmark.