The Hazel Hare Center for Plant Science Phase II Phoenix, Arizona architecture photos

The Hazel Hare Center for Plant Science, Phase II in Phoenix

December 15, 2025

Design: coLAB studio, llc

Location: Phoenix, Arizona, USA

Photos: Bill Timmerman and Grey Shed Studio

The Hazel Hare Center for Plant Science, Phase II, USA

The Hazel Hare Center for Plant Science, Phase II, is a cutting-edge development featuring three new commercial buildings that showcase a diverse range of uses.

This innovative project is set to revolutionize the way we approach plant science and research. With its unique blend of functionality and sustainability, the center is poised to become a hub for scientific inquiry and discovery. The three buildings that comprise the project are designed to foster collaboration and innovation, providing a dynamic and interactive environment for scientists, researchers, and industry professionals.

The project’s diverse uses are reflected in its various facilities, which are equipped with state-of-the-art technology and equipment. The Hazel Hare Center for Plant Science, Phase II, is a testament to the power of human ingenuity and the importance of investing in scientific research and development.

With its commitment to excellence and innovation, this project is sure to have a lasting impact on the field of plant science and beyond, featuring a range of amenities and facilities that support the needs of its occupants.

Overall, the center is an exciting and ambitious project that has the potential to drive meaningful change and advancement in the scientific community.

– There are three new commercial buildings with very diverse uses. Could you elaborate on the specific types of businesses or functions these buildings will house, and how these diverse uses align with or enhance the overall mission of The Hazel Hare Center for Plant Science?

The 4500 sf Ahearn Horticulture Center (shown below) – the utilitarian nerve center of the entire Garden, containing lockers, tools, plant media, a storage mezzanine, and an office space for the Horticulture Management.

The RAF Exhibit Building (shown to the right), a 2000 sf flexible state-of-the art exhibit space, with Passive House building envelope and natural materials for structure and insulation.

A 12,000 sf Shade Pavilion (shown lower below) that allows the Garden’s extensive collection of rare and endangered species of desert plants from around the world.

– How does the architectural design of these new commercial buildings reflect their diverse uses while also integrating with the existing or overarching theme of plant science and sustainability within the Hazel Hare Center?

Each building has a distinct and unique purpose at the Desert Botanical Garden.

The 4500 sf Ahearn Horticulture Building is the nerve center of the entire Garden, not just the Hazel Hare Center for Plant Science. It houses all the tools, media, office space, storage space, personal lockers, irrigation materials, etc. The Cladding is vertically vented to keep hot temperatures away from the building’s interior.

The 2000 sf RAF Exhibit Gallery is a state of the art gallery space and environmentally advanced structure. The building envelope is built to Passive House standards and is made of natural materials, particularly the wood framing and insulation of mineral wool and wood fiber boards. The Cladding is vertically vented to keep hot temperatures away from the building’s interior. The envelope reduces HVAC needs, saving electricity.

A 12,000 sf Shade Pavilion that allows the Garden’s extensive collection of rare and endangered species of desert plants from around the world. The entire facility is able to react to changes in weather and temperature through automation technologies and various moving parts. Horizontal and vertical shades are automatically deployable to shade the plants that need protection. Fans keep air moving and temperatures lowered when in use through high-tech automation equipment.