Natural History Building

The Natural History Building is a red brick structure with a stone foundation at the University of Illinois, featuring decorated surfaces and exposed timber trusses that create coffered ceilings inside. The building contains multiple floors of teaching and research spaces organized to serve the School of Earth, Society, and Environment.

Built in 1892, the structure originally housed botany, zoology, geology, and a natural history museum designed by architect Nathan Clifford Ricker. The building reflected the educational priorities of the late 1800s when natural sciences were expanding.

Today it houses the School of Earth, Society, and Environment where students and researchers study Earth systems and environmental science. The building functions as a hub for practical learning in fields like atmospheric science and geology.

Access is typically available during university business hours, though some areas may be limited to students and staff. It is best to check ahead if you plan to explore specific rooms or laboratories.

Following structural problems discovered in 2010, the building underwent complete renovation through 2017 and achieved Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Gold certification. This transformation preserved the historic brick facade while installing advanced sustainable systems inside.