From “Old Chem” To The Sapp Center: An Historic Renovation | Teaching Chemistry at Stanford

May 23, 2017
Presenters: Richard Sapp, David Lenox, John I. Brauman
Moderator: Larry Horton

Stanford’s “Old Chem” opened its doors in 1902 and was home to the Department of Chemistry until 1989. Severe damage in the Loma Prieta earthquake required that “Old Chem” be closed. Surrounded by a tall hurricane fence for almost 30 years, “Old Chem” remained a much-admired historical building. A thorough renovation was finally undertaken and “Old Chem” reopened in 2016 as the Sapp Center for Science Teaching and Learning. With great care, the renovation retained the historic architectural character of this important building.

Reflections on the Restoration of a Noble Building
Richard Sapp, Member, Stanford Board of Trustees, 2008-2013

A Short History of Old Chem and How It Was Restored
David Lenox, University Architect and Executive Director, Campus Planning & Design

Stanford Chemistry: Tradition and Transition
John I. Brauman, J. G. Jackson - C. J. Wood Professor of Chemistry, Emeritus

The program is moderated by Larry Horton, Member, Stanford Historical Society Board.