Merrill Hall, the Flagship of the Center for Urban Horticulture, was destroyed in 2001 by fire. Rebuilt with funds from the State, the University of Washington, and private contributors, the 20,000 s.f. building illustrates how smart design can integrate structure with environment and improve inhabitant well-being and productivity, while conserving water and reducing non-renewable energy consumption. Many UW departments offer classes on environmental sustainability, but there were no real examples on the campus. This facility serves as a learning tool for a wide range of study areas, from electrical and mechanical engineering, to environmental health, architecture, landscape architecture, to programs on the environment, sociology, and business. The project is seeking LEED™ certification.

Academic Spaces include four research labs, offices, graduate student offices and a shared computer lab. Public Outreach Spaces include a Herbarium Collection Room and public display and a new flexible greenhouse lobby for additional displays and public events.

The building also serves as the new home of the Elizabeth Miller Horticultural Library, one of the largest and most well-known horticultural libraries in the United States.