Forest Products Laboratory
The Forest Products Laboratory is a government research facility in Madison, Wisconsin dedicated to wood science and forest materials. The U-shaped building with a six-story central section features expansive windows, terrazzo flooring, and American Walnut trim with different wood species displayed on various floors.
Founded in 1910, the facility brought together researchers who had previously worked separately at different colleges and institutions. Since then it has developed breakthroughs in particle board, wood adhesion, wood preservatives, and fire resistance standards.
The laboratory is named after conservationist Gifford Pinchot, reflected in the street name where it stands. Its straightforward design demonstrates how scientific work and practical function shape the appearance of research facilities.
The building sits in a quiet area away from downtown Madison's busier streets, offering good access for pedestrians and visitors passing by or exploring. The grounds are open and accessible, though the facility itself is primarily used for research work.
The laboratory constructed full-scale structures including a house and carriage to test how wood performs under actual weather conditions. These experiments help architects and builders improve design techniques and create stronger, longer-lasting structures.
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