Miller|Hull designed a new laboratory for Washington State University to house the Institute for Shock Physics. The 33,500 s.f. site is within central campus adjacent to the Webster Physical Sciences Building.

The goals for the new facility include: 1) providing adequate space for the Institute to be able to carry out research required by the DOE grant; 2) enhancing the capacity of the Institute to continue to be on the cutting edge of research in this field; 3) developing a facility that will aid in attracting outstanding researchers and faculty to WSU; and 4) developing a facility that conveys the character of a world class research department.

The new Shock Physics Building consists of 2 three-story wings wrapped around the north and west sides of the main laboratory functions. The character of the facility addresses the existing context of other buildings on the WSU campus, especially the predominantly brick and concrete buildings along College Avenue. The image of the building is consistent with the desire to present visitors with a clear message stating the importance of the Institute for Shock Physics on the WSU campus.